Nancy Stands Resolute After His Team's Home Defeat to Rangers

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in their last eight outings.

The Frenchman hailed an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of clear chances.

However, their Glasgow counterparts roared back after the break, exposing the Celtic's defensive fragility with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

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

Speaking post-match, 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 players or the game plan, this is about key instances."

"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the meaning of this game. I can appreciate the disappointment, but I also saw what we're able to do."

"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 truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."

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

Analysts Give Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "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 carry on and it should not have occurred. The people on the board who facilitated this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified the issue: "The problems aren't high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the shape at the back and the defensive qualities."

Former Rangers striker and coach Billy Dodds added: "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 give, 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 doesn't do that."

Fan Reaction: Understanding for Nancy But Growing Calls for His Departure

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

Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, 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 system. These players are not bad 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 scapegoat. 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 won't change. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.

John Moore
John Moore

Lena is a passionate music journalist with over a decade of experience covering indie and electronic scenes, dedicated to uncovering hidden gems.