Victor Wanyama’s faith in Nancy backfires as Celtic dream crashes
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 06.01.26. | 09:27
Nancy’s early struggles included losing his first four matches, including the League Cup final to St. Mirren
Former Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama has been forced to eat humble pie after his earlier glowing endorsement of Wilfried Nancy at Celtic was swiftly contradicted by the Frenchman’s disastrous run as manager.
The former Celtic midfielder had publicly praised Nancy following his appointment, citing their successful period together at CF Montréal in Major League Soccer as proof of the coach’s capabilities.
“When we worked together under Wilfried at Montreal, we built something really special,” Wanyama said. “Some of my best moments came during that period, including winning the Canadian Championship against Toronto. It was a historic achievement for the club, and I am proud to have been part of it.”
Nancy, however, struggled to replicate that success at Parkhead.
Just 33 days after arriving from Columbus Crew, the Frenchman was sacked following a run of six defeats in eight matches.
His final outing ended in a 3–1 home defeat to Rangers in the Old Firm derby.
Celtic confirmed the decision in a club statement.
"Celtic Football Club has decided to terminate the contract of manager Wilfried Nancy with immediate effect. We thank Wilfried for his efforts and wish 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. As part of the changes, Paul Tisdale is no longer head of football operations. We thank Paul for the contribution he has made in that role," said the club in a statement.
Nancy’s early struggles included losing his first four matches, including the League Cup final to St. Mirren, and managing only two wins in eight games.
Following his departure, Celtic reinstated Martin O’Neill as interim manager.
O’Neill, who previously oversaw a successful interim spell, said he was happy to manage the club permanently.
"I am really pleased, in fact, very honoured to be asked back to manage the team again. I know we would all have hoped for things to have worked out differently under Wilfried, and I personally want to wish him good luck with everything he does in the game. He is a fine man and I am sure he will go on and achieve success again."
Celtic now face a demanding schedule of domestic and Europa League fixtures as they seek stability under O’Neill’s stewardship for the remainder of the season.
