One could argue that Celtic are in a worse position now than they were back in the 20/21 campaign. Whether that is accurate or not is a different discussion altogether. But the fact that one has to even give it a think is further proof of how bad things have gotten at Parkhead. Even more worryingly, it looks like the board is intent on making this Wilfried Nancy a success. At some point, common sense will need to prevail though. Sticking with him for far too long could derail the entire campaign.
A few days earlier, rumours had broken out that the club had decided to part ways with Nancy after four defeats to start off his Parkhead run. One of the first journalists to confirm that was not going to happen was Peter Martin.
Now, he has provided a new behind-the-scenes update on Celtic. And it is mixed news, and slightly worrying for the supporters.
As reported by 67 Hail Hail, Martin said on PLZ Soccer:
"I stand by what I said. The conversation is basically to him. He’s hanging on by a thread, game by game basis.
“He’s lost four consecutive games. Roma is a get out of jail card. The other three managers worked him out.
“Hearts, understandable. St Mirren, with a fraction, and I mean a fraction of the budget of Celtic, defeated them in a cup final. Then Dundee United, who had one win in 11 games going into that match against Celtic, but managed to defeat them.
“So you bet your bottom dollar there was a conversation had as to what the future holds for Wilfried Nancy.
“And at the end of the day, if someone says to me, no, that discussion did not take place, then that’s a further indictment on the Celtic Board who remain clueless and rudderless."
'Clueless' - Journalist's worrying behind-the-scenes Celtic claim
One would imagine that there might very well have been some conversations with Nancy behind the scenes. At the end of the day, even if the board want to see him succeed, there is only a certain point until which they can stick with him.
They might already be at the limit with the Frenchman losing his first four games. That is a historic start for a manager at Celtic, but for all the wrong reasons.
Some fresh rumours have cropped up that a lot depends on the next two games for Nancy's future. If he fails to win them, he might be shown the exit door by the club. It remains to be seen how accurate that information is.
Even if Celtic do sack Nancy, where do they go from there? Will they try to bring in another fresh manager in hopes that it works out? Or will they go for someone tried-and-tested like Martin O'Neill or Ange Postecoglou? The former would be a short-term option at best. On the other hand, the latter might not even be open to a Parkhead return at this point in his career.