It is not easy being the manager of Celtic. From the outside, it might feel that way. You are winning trophies consistently and managing at some level in Europe, whether it be the Champions League or the Europa League. But the pressure that comes with the Parkhead job can be overwhelming for many. Will that be the case with Wilfried Nancy as well?
Nancy had the chance to start his stint as Celtic manager on the right note. It might have been a top of the table clash on his debut, but Hearts have been in terrible form. All the momentum was on the Hoops' side and at home, they should have had enough in the tank to get all three points, even with a new boss in the dugout.
Instead, they lost 2-1 to Hearts. By the time Kieran Tierney found the back of the net, it was too late to even salvage a draw. And now, the pressure is right on Nancy.
At Celtic, you have to win pretty much every game domestically. There is no two ways about it. That was the message from club icon Scott Brown as well. As reported by CeltsAreHere, he said on Sky Sports:
"Look, he’s wanting to change a lot of things.
“It’s going to take time and it’s not going to happen overnight. I get that, but it’s a big week for him.
“He’s came in, it’s Hearts top of the table, he’s got Roma during the week, then he’s got a cup final.
“At Celtic, you’ve got to win games, or the fans are disappointed."
Scott Brown already sends Celtic warning to Wilfried Nancy
Now, it would be unfair to expect Nancy to implement all his ideas within days of his arrival. That being said, he needs to find a way to win games consistently, even while the team are getting used to his system.
Whether you like it or not, this is just the reality of life as a Celtic manager. You have to win. A lot. When you sign up for the job, that is in the description.
To be honest, many were unsure about the timing of Nancy's arrival. The loss against Hearts is a blow. But even bigger games are coming up. Next up is one against AS Roma in the Europa League. Then they will take on St Mirren in the Scottish League Cup final. Let's just say that we would feel a lot more confident if Martin O'Neill were in the dugout.