For several weeks now, Celtic have been linked with a variety of candidates. Well, now we finally know who the outright favourite is to get the job. And while it is not over the line yet, that is believed to be only a matter of time. Unless there is a last-minute twist in the situation, Wilfried Nancy is going to be the new manager of the club in the very near future.
Of course, there are plenty who will raise their eyebrows at the appointment. Celtic are going through a rough patch right now. They need someone experienced and proven.
On the other hand, Nancy has never even managed in Europe. So, understandably, many are wondering if he is the right choice for the job or not.
To be very honest, we are not sure either. But all we can do is wait and watch how this turns out. Celtic seem to have made their choice. And now reports coming out of America back those of the Scottish media as well.
American media confirms Wilfried Nancy to Celtic U-turn
Earlier, it had been claimed that Celtic had not even made contact with Columbus Crew regarding Nancy. Just last week, as reported by 67 Hail Hail, their General Manager Issa Tall had said:
"I was told that there was a report that said we gave permission to Celtic but in order to get permission, you have to ask. We haven’t had anything from that particular club.
“We’ve never received something official. I’m not saying it’s something that couldn’t come in my mailbox in the next hour, but for now we haven’t heard anything."
But now, as reported by The Columbus Dispatch, the MLS side are in contact with Celtic and are working to finalise an agreement for Nancy to join the Scottish club. The Crew attempted to negotiate a contract extension for the Frenchman to stay, but the 48-year-old expressed that he wanted to coach overseas for the Hoops.
So, it looks like it is only a matter of time before we see Nancy in the Celtic dugout. The timing of the appointment is still not set in stone. But according to most of the reports coming out of the Scottish media, there is a confidence at Parkhead that the move will be completed by next week.
Of course, bringing in Nancy this close to the Scottish League Cup final would be a risky move. There is a chance that the momentum built up under Martin O'Neill could end up getting derailed.
The importance of the match against Hearts cannot be overlooked either. So, if Nancy is the new manager by next week, he will find himself under pressure to deliver very quickly.