Ex-MLS Coach of the Year Set to Take Celtic Helm in Stunning Managerial Coup—Report
Wilfried Nancy is said to be in deep discussions about taking over as Celtic's new head coach after an impressive stint in Major League Soccer.
The 2024 MLS Coach of the Year recipient may join Celtic within the coming week, according to Sky Sports. Talks with the coach and his potential coaching team appear to be nearing completion. The Glasgow club will need to reach an agreement on compensation with Columbus Crew to bring Nancy aboard.
Nancy and Columbus Crew saw their campaign end in the opening round of the 2025 MLS Cup playoffs against FC Cincinnati, with a devastating late strike in the decisive third match possibly marking the final time the 48-year-old tactician will occupy the Crew's dugout.
Celtic have been operating without a full-time manager since ex-Liverpool chief Brendan Rogers stepped down in late October. Martin O'Neill has filled the interim role since then and is anticipated to remain in charge for Celtic's upcoming two fixtures.
The Bhoys currently trail by four points in the Scottish Premiership despite having a match in reserve, though they've encountered significant difficulties in continental competition this campaign. After four Europa League matches, Celtic find themselves in the elimination positions of the league stage with four points collected.
The expectation is that Nancy can assist the club in getting back on track this season and guide Celtic to trophy success as he accomplished in Ohio.
Wilfried Nancy's Triumphant Tenure With Columbus Crew
Columbus Crew have established themselves as one of MLS's premier sides since Nancy's appointment before the 2023 campaign.
After a productive period with CF Montréal that yielded a Canadian Championship triumph, Nancy moved to Columbus and steered them to MLS Cup success, overcoming LAFC in the championship match to cap off an exceptional inaugural season with the organization.
The subsequent year saw Nancy and Columbus overcome two of Liga MX's premier clubs, Tigres and Monterrey, en route to the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup final. While continental success remained elusive, Nancy's Crew made history as the first MLS side in the tournament's existence to knock out two Mexican teams without suffering a second-leg defeat on foreign territory.
Columbus proceeded to capture the Leagues Cup that campaign before Nancy earned MLS Coach of the Year recognition.
A transition to European football seemed inevitable, and Celtic have emerged as suitors to offer Nancy a chance with one of the United Kingdom's most prestigious clubs.