Celtic have publicly backed Wilfried Nancy after four straight defeats, with the board urging patience during a strategic "refresh". For punters, that reduces short-term odds of a managerial sacking — but continued poor form suggests value in backing draws or opponents in upcoming fixtures until the team regains form.
Celtic board signals backing for Wilfried Nancy despite worst-ever start
Wilfried Nancy has endured a nightmare opening to his Parkhead tenure, losing all four games since swapping Columbus Crew for the Scottish champions. Defeats to Hearts, Roma in the Europa League, St Mirren in the Premier Sports Cup final and a 2-1 loss to Dundee United have left the squad and supporters alarmed.
On-field struggles and fan unrest
At Tannadice Celtic squandered chances and fell to a 2-1 defeat, prompting angry reactions from the stands, including chants calling for former interim boss Martin O'Neill. Despite the hostility, Nancy remained defiant after the match and insisted he would not walk away from the job.
Board response: patience and a strategic review
Interim chairman Brian Wilson, preparing to take over from the outgoing chief executive, has urged supporters to allow time for a "refresh" and a strategic look at how the club operates. He framed his role as interim and emphasised that change is a process, asking fans to unite behind the team while weaknesses are identified and addressed.
Ambition unchanged but pressure mounts
Wilson reiterated the club's objectives — winning the league, lifting the Scottish Cup and performing well in Europe — and said those aims remain feasible if there is unity between supporters, players and decision-makers. He acknowledged the current season has not met expectations but stressed it can still be salvaged.
What this means for upcoming fixtures and betting markets
With the board appearing to back the manager for now, immediate managerial-sacking markets may shorten their appeal. However, Celtic's run of poor results suggests bettors could find value in alternative markets — for example, drawing bets, backing opponents, or markets on goals — until the team shows a clear turn in form.
Outlook
The club faces a critical period where short-term results must improve to calm supporters and justify the board's patient approach. If performances do not pick up, pressure will continue to grow; if the team responds, the interim strategy may be vindicated.
Rodgers to manage Al Qadsiah after Celtic exit
The Scottish champions have fallen apart since Nancy stepped into the dugout with four defeats in a row
Daily Record
