The Scottish football club Celtic is finalizing its appointment of Wilfried Nancy as the new manager. The agreement includes Nancy’s assistant, Kwame Ampadu, who will also join the club. Celtic aims to finalize the deals before the upcoming weekend, allowing Nancy to officially take charge next week.
Current Management Situation
Interim manager Martin O’Neill and assistant Shaun Maloney will remain in control for an important Europa League match against Feyenoord scheduled for Thursday. They are also expected to lead the team during Sunday’s Scottish Premiership game against Hibernian, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
Wilfried Nancy’s Achievements
Wilfried Nancy, at 48 years old, has established himself as a prominent coach in Major League Soccer (MLS) over the past two years. Notably, he has secured both the MLS Cup and the Leagues Cup. He was also named MLS Coach of the Year in 2024 after coming close to the title in 2022.
- Led Columbus Crew to the final of the CONCACAF Champions Cup last year.
- Achieved a domestic cup double and finished second in the league.
- Known for his team’s attacking style and aggressive high pressing.
Coaching Style and Methodology
Nancy’s tactical setup typically involves three center-backs and two dynamic wing-backs. His teams have demonstrated a possession-oriented style, leading MLS in metrics such as possession, progressive passes, and final-third tackles despite finishing seventh in the conference this season.
Celtic’s Vision for the Future
Celtic is optimistic about Nancy’s potential to transition to European football successfully. The club draws parallels between Nancy and former manager Ange Postecoglou, who won multiple titles during his tenure. Paul Tisdale, Celtic’s head of football operations, has recommended Nancy based on his accomplishments and coaching abilities.
Familiar Faces at Celtic
Alongside Nancy, assistant coach Kwame Ampadu, who previously guided Exeter City’s U18 team, may also join the Celtic ranks. Nancy has a prior working relationship with Celtic player Alistair Johnston, whom he signed during his time at CF Montréal.
Upcoming Fixtures for Celtic
- Feyenoord (A) – Europa League – Thursday
- Hibernian (A) – Scottish Premiership – Sunday – live on Sky Sports
- Dundee (H) – Scottish Premiership – December 3
- Hearts (H) – Scottish Premiership – December 7 – live on Sky Sports
- Roma (H) – Europa League – December 11
- St Mirren (N) – League Cup final – December 14
Celtic’s management is on the verge of an exciting transition that could shape the team’s future in both domestic and European competitions.
