Nancy Remains Resolute After His Team's Derby Loss to Rangers

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" in the face of a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in their last eight outings.

The Frenchman hailed an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of clear chances.

Yet, their city rivals roared back after the break, capitalising on the Celtic's fragile defence with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome means Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points adrift leaders Hearts subject to the evening result.

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

"In the second half, we let in three goals from set-pieces. It's tough to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the individuals or the tactics, this is about key instances."

"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand the meaning 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 speak like this. I truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."

He concluded by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."

Analysts Give Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Predicament

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh analysis: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The disconnect between the manager and the team is so stark."

"It is not something that can continue and it should not have occurred. The people on the board who facilitated 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 shape at the back and the ability to defend."

Former Rangers striker and coach Billy Dodds remarked: "As much as Rangers have done the right things in this second half, Celtic have been just brutally bad."

"Celtic have just collapsed. Something has to give, there is no doubt."

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton concluded: "We've seen this story before with Nancy's Celtic."

"You can score, but you've got to defend. This team doesn't do that."

Fan Reaction: Understanding for Nancy But Growing Calls for His Departure

The full-time mood among supporters was one of frustration and calls for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, after the break we looked like a pub team. Nancy has a single way of playing and can't react. Get him out now!

Iain: It's very painfully obvious 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 completely 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 progress. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.

Kelly Gray
Kelly Gray

A passionate storyteller and avid traveler, sharing insights from journeys across the globe.