Martin O’Neill to Celtic? Allardyce and Stubbs give their verdict as Nancy talk grows

Celtic’s current situation is nothing short of chaotic, and in many ways, it reflects a season that has gone off the rails from the very beginning.

Failure to reach the Champions League set the tone, and now Wilfried Nancy finds himself under intense pressure after a difficult start to life at Parkhead.

Since replacing Martin O’Neill in early December, Nancy has overseen five defeats, leaving supporters questioning whether he is the right man to turn things around.

Sam Allardyce was one of the most outspoken voices during O’Neill’s interim spell, previously arguing against the veteran manager staying on permanently. Alongside former Celtic defender Alan Stubbs, Allardyce has now weighed in on the possibility of O’Neill making another return as Nancy’s position becomes increasingly uncertain.

Even before Nancy officially arrived in Glasgow, Allardyce had been critical of the appointment, at one point dismissively referring to the Frenchman as a “school teacher.” With results worsening, the former England boss was asked whether Celtic might turn back to O’Neill once again.

Speaking on the No Tippy Tappy Podcast, Allardyce dismissed the idea of an immediate return but did leave the door slightly open under very specific circumstances.

When asked by host Natalie Pike if O’Neill could be back at Celtic this season, Allardyce gave a blunt “no,” while Stubbs appeared more hesitant. Stubbs suggested that Nancy’s future could hinge on the next few fixtures—particularly the upcoming clash with Rangers—warning that failure in those games could be decisive.

Allardyce added that any potential comeback would depend on O’Neill committing beyond the short term, saying a return might only happen if the former boss agreed to stay through this season and the next, using his stature and popularity at the club to steady the ship.

Comparing the two managerial spells, O’Neill’s interim period was far from perfect, but there were notable highlights, including an impressive Europa League victory away to Feyenoord. Under Nancy, however, performances have appeared overcomplicated, with little sign of progress or belief that improvements are imminent.

With Rangers visiting Celtic Park this weekend, the stakes could not be higher. In simple terms, Nancy cannot afford defeat—another loss may leave the club with no choice but to make a change.