Wilfried Nancy is under intense scrutiny as he heads into Sunday’s crucial showdown with Aberdeen, with pressure mounting on the winless Celtic boss. Alan Shearer believes the Frenchman is edging dangerously close to the exit door, warning that another defeat could prove decisive for his future at Parkhead.
The former Newcastle and England striker feels Celtic made a serious error by parting ways with Martin O’Neill, describing the Irishman’s approach as “genius” and ideally suited to the club. Nancy has yet to register a victory since arriving from Columbus Crew, overseeing four games without a win as he attempts to implement his preferred 3-4-3 system.
By contrast, O’Neill had steadied the ship in impressive fashion, winning seven of his eight matches as interim manager following Brendan Rodgers’ sudden departure. That contrast has not gone unnoticed by supporters. During the recent defeat to Dundee United at Tannadice, sections of the Celtic support loudly called for O’Neill’s return while venting their frustration at the current regime.
Shearer believes Nancy is already in a must-win situation ahead of the Aberdeen clash. Speaking to Betfair, he revealed that he has spoken directly with O’Neill and feels Celtic should have shown more faith in the experienced coach.
In Shearer’s view, O’Neill’s strength lies in his simplicity and man-management, knowing how to get the best out of players by keeping roles clear and straightforward. He suggested Nancy has placed himself under immense pressure by making sweeping tactical changes so quickly, especially after inheriting a side that had been producing results.
Shearer acknowledged that new managers often want to make an immediate impact, but warned that completely overhauling a system that had been working was always a huge gamble. With Nancy urging patience and asking supporters to “trust the process,” Shearer questioned whether that approach would be tolerated at a club like Celtic.
He stressed that Parkhead is an unforgiving environment, where prolonged losing runs are simply unacceptable. According to Shearer, the noise around the club is already deafening, and if results do not improve immediately, the consequences are inevitable.
In his blunt assessment, no Celtic manager — new or experienced — can survive five or six straight defeats. If that scenario unfolds, Shearer believes everyone knows exactly how the story will end.
Leave a Reply