Celtic Pursues Wilfried Nancy as Next Manager Amid Ongoing Negotiations

Celtic FC has officially contacted Columbus Crew regarding Wilfried Nancy as a potential successor to Brendan Rodgers, marking the first direct engagement after weeks of speculation surrounding the MLS coach. This outreach signifies a pivotal advancement in Celtic’s quest for a new manager.

According to reports from ESPN, both parties are now working towards finalizing an agreement that appears to favor Nancy’s transition to the Scottish Premiership. Current negotiations also involve deliberations on which members of Nancy’s coaching team would accompany him to Glasgow if the move to European football comes to fruition.

Celtic has been without a permanent manager since Brendan Rodgers resigned on October 27, following a challenging start to the season that saw the club falter both domestically and in European competitions. Club legend Martin O’Neill has taken on the role of interim manager since Rodgers’ departure, guiding the team through a period of transition while the board conducts their search for a permanent replacement.

Under O’Neill’s temporary leadership, Celtic has managed to stabilize somewhat; however, they currently trail by four points in the Scottish Premiership title race, with a game in hand. U.S. internationals Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty both represent the club, though Carter-Vickers is sidelined with an injury expected to keep him out until April.

Wilfried Nancy has established an impressive coaching record following his transition from a modest playing career in the lower tiers of French football. Prior to his tenure in Columbus, he gained recognition at CF Montréal, where he led the club to one of its most successful seasons in MLS history in 2022, earning accolades for his player development and tactical acumen.

Nancy’s arrival at Columbus Crew proved to be transformative, as he introduced an attractive, possession-oriented style that quickly yielded positive results. Under his guidance, Columbus clinched the MLS Cup in 2023, and Nancy was subsequently honored as the MLS Coach of the Year in 2024, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s premier managers.

The Crew has reportedly engaged in discussions with Nancy in recent years regarding an extension of his current contract, which runs through 2026, while also considering elevating him to one of the league’s highest-paid coaches. However, Nancy has been hesitant to commit to a long-term deal, harboring aspirations for an opportunity abroad.

While reports suggest that negotiations are progressing towards agreement, any forthcoming appointment will hinge on mutual agreement between the clubs concerning compensation, staff transitions, and a feasible timeline for Nancy’s departure.