Five key takeaways from Celtic’s heavy 3–0 loss to AS Roma in the Europa League

Celtic suffered a heavy and humiliating Europa League defeat to Roma on Thursday night.

The Italians struck three times before the break, leaving the Hoops with an impossible task and supporters venting their frustration at Wilfried Nancy.

Arne Engels’ missed penalty in first-half stoppage time summed up the evening, while Kelechi Iheanacho later saw a goal chalked off for offside.


Nancy needs a temporary change of approach

The manager has consistently stated his desire to play a 3-4-3 system, but it’s clear the current squad isn’t equipped for it. Celtic improved slightly after half-time, yet by then they were simply trying to limit the damage.
Until injured players return — and until reinforcements arrive in January — Nancy will need a short-term tactical adjustment that still reflects his ideas but also produces results.

Iheanacho should be in the starting XI

One of the few positives on the night was the display from Kelechi Iheanacho.
After a spell out injured, he came on in the second half and immediately made an impact, creating chances, seeing one effort disallowed, and urging his teammates on throughout.
Given that attitude and influence, he deserves to start on Sunday.

Celtic Park isn’t the same without the Green Brigade

Being 3–0 down before half-time naturally kills the atmosphere, but even before the goals, the stadium felt noticeably flat.
With the Green Brigade’s ban now extended indefinitely, Celtic Park has lost its usual spark.
As the new manager struggles to settle, strong backing is crucial, yet aside from chants aimed at the board, support was minimal.
The club must find a way to resolve this and bring the core fan group back to help lift the players.

The players must show more fight

This result reflects poorly on everyone, and while Nancy deserves some criticism, the squad cannot escape responsibility.
Only a week ago they were battling relentlessly for Martin O’Neill — now they look uninterested.
Their commitment has been questioned several times this season as Celtic have scraped through matches.
Wearing the shirt is a privilege, and some players need to realise it quickly.

January can’t arrive soon enough

The transfer window cannot open quickly enough for Celtic.
The squad badly needs fresh energy, while several players should be moved on.
Wing-backs are essential, along with a centre-half, a defensive midfielder, and another striker if Celtic want to compete seriously on all fronts.
New signings would boost morale — but only if the board is willing to spend.







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