Wilfried Nancy Remains Resolute Following Celtic's Home Defeat to City Rivals

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in eight games.

The French manager hailed an "outstanding" first-half display from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up several other opportunities.

Yet, their city rivals fought back after the break, capitalising on the Celtic's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome means Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points adrift leaders Hearts depending on the evening result.

Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "The result 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 throw-ins. It's tough to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the individuals or the game plan, this is about moments."

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

"I believe we are really close, there are many things that can be improved. If it was not the case, I would not talk like this. I really believe we can turn things around."

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

Pundits Deliver Stark Assessment on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "Unworkable 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 continue and it should not have occurred. The people on the board who facilitated this should be shown the door as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the issue: "The problems are not high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the organisation at the back and the defensive qualities."

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

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

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton summed up: "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."

Fan Reaction: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change

The post-match mood among supporters was one of anger and calls for action.

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

Iain: It's very painfully obvious that Celtic cannot play to Nancy's system. These players are not poor players all of a sudden. The answer is obvious.

James: The board are completely to blame. I feel sorry for Nancy as he should never got the job in the first place, but he'll be used as the fall guy. We lack the players for his system.

Andy: Nancy has to go. I've been one of those wanting 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.

Benjamin Moore
Benjamin Moore

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