Wilfried Nancy Stands Resolute Following Celtic's Home Defeat to Rangers

Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" in the face of a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth loss in eight games.

The Frenchman hailed an "outstanding" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other clear chances.

However, their city rivals roared back after the break, capitalising on the Celtic's defensive fragility with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome sees Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could find themselves six points adrift table-toppers Hearts subject to the evening result.

Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "It was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we needed more goals."

"In the second half, we let in three goals from set-pieces. It's tough to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the individuals or the tactics, this is about key instances."

"This is not about myself, this is about letting down the fans because I understand the significance of this game. I can appreciate the frustration, but I also saw what we're able to do."

"I believe we are really close, there are many things that can turn around. If it was not the case, I would not speak like this. I really believe we can reverse our fortunes."

He finished by stressing, "We are together with the board."

Analysts Give Stark Verdict on Celtic's Predicament

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated man. The disconnect between the manager and the team is so stark."

"It is not something that can carry on and it should not have happened. The people on the board who allowed this should be shown the door as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the issue: "The problems are not high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the shape at the back and the ability to defend."

Former Rangers striker and coach Billy Dodds added: "As much as Rangers have done the right things in this second half, Celtic have been just woefully poor."

"Celtic have just capitulated. Something has to change, there is no doubt."

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton concluded: "We've seen this movie before with Nancy's Celtic."

"You can score, but you've got to defend. This team don't do that."

Supporters' Views: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure

The full-time mood among the fanbase was one of anger and demand for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time we looked like amateurs. Nancy has a single way of playing and can't adapt. Get him out now!

Iain: It's very clear for all to see that Celtic cannot play to Nancy's style. These players are not bad players all of a sudden. The answer is self-explanatory.

James: The board are wholly to blame. I feel sorry for Nancy as he should never been appointed in the first place, but he'll be used as the scapegoat. We lack the players for his system.

Andy: Nancy has to go. I've been one of those hoping to give him a chance, but there is no improvement. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.

Anna White
Anna White

Elara is a historian and writer passionate about uncovering forgotten tales and sharing cultural heritage through engaging blog posts.