Wilfried Nancy Stands Defiant Following His Team's Derby Loss to City Rivals

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

The Frenchman hailed an "outstanding" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other opportunities.

However, their Glasgow counterparts fought back after the break, exposing the Celtic's fragile defence with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.

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

Speaking post-match, Nancy commented, "It was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we needed more goals."

"In the second half, we conceded three goals from set-pieces. 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 disappointing the fans because I understand the significance of this game. I can understand the disappointment, but I also saw what we're capable 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 talk like this. I really believe we can turn things around."

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

Analysts Give Stark Verdict 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 obvious."

"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 absolute state."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the problem: "The problems aren't high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the organisation at the back and the ability to defend."

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 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 don't do that."

Supporters' Views: Understanding for Nancy But Growing Calls for Change

The post-match sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and calls for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like amateurs. Nancy has one 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 poor players all of a sudden. The answer is obvious.

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 don't have 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.

Justin Wallace
Justin Wallace

A digital artist and design enthusiast with over a decade of experience in creating compelling visual stories and mentoring aspiring creatives.