Wilfried Nancy sacked by Celtic after just 33 days in charge as statement issued | Football | Sport
Celtic have officially sacked Wilfried Nancy just 33 days after he was appointed to replace Brendan Rodgers at Parkhead. The former Columbus Crew boss endured a nightmare reign in Glasgow, winning just two of his eight matches in charge and losing the other six. He also oversaw a chastening defeat to St Mirren in the Scottish League Cup final but his spell at Celtic hit a new low on Saturday, when they were beaten at home by Rangers.
The reigning Scottish champions were taken apart by their Old Firm rivals, who came from a goal behind to secure a 3-1 victory at Celtic Park. There were thousands of empty seats in the closing stages and loud jeers rang out upon the final whistle. Some fans waited outside the stadium to protest against Nancy and the club’s owners.
The result against Rangers ultimately sealed the 48-year-old’s fate, with Celtic confirming on Monday afternoon that he had been relieved of his duties.
In a statement, they said: “Celtic Football Club today announces that it has decided to terminate the contract of manager Wilfried Nancy, with immediate effect.
The club thanks Wilfried for his efforts and wishes him and his family well for the future. Wilfried’s assistants, Kwame Ampadu, Jules Gueguen and Maxime Chalier, will also be leaving the club and they take with them our good wishes.
“The club can also confirm that Paul Tisdale has left his position as head of football operations. We thank Paul for the contribution he has made in that role. A further update will be provided to supporters as soon as is practical.”
It leaves Celtic facing the prospect of appointing their third permanent manager of the season. They started the campaign with Rodgers at the helm but he resigned in October, with Martin O’Neill taking charge on a temporary basis.
Nancy arrived from Columbus Crew last month but was unable to steady the ship, leading to his exit after only 33 days.
Speaking in his final interview after the Rangers defeat, he insisted he still had the backing of the board and suggested he could turn things around.
He said: “It was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we needed more goals. In the second half, we conceded three goals from throw-ins.
“It’s difficult to accept, but it’s reality. This is not about the players or the tactics, this is about moments. This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the meaning of this game.
“I can understand the disappointment, but I also saw what we’re able to do. We are really close, there are many things that can turn around.
“If it was not the case, I would not talk like this. I really believe we can turn things around. We are together with the board.”
