Celtic’s manager shortlist reportedly includes Columbus Crew boss Wilfried Nancy.
As Martin O’Neill takes interim charge of the side after Brendan Rodgers’ sudden departure, the search for a permanent replacement is going on in the background.
Desmond’s scathing statement aimed at Rodgers was certainly not in the background – it has dominated Scottish football discourse this week.
Meanwhile, O’Neill is preparing for a crucial Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Rangers which could define his interim spell.
And Alistair Johnston, who will miss the game after an injury setback in the Europa League last week, is very familiar with Nancy.
Alistair Johnston on Celtic manager target Wilfried Nancy
Nancy has enjoyed immense success at the Crew, winning MLS in 2023 and the Leagues Cup in 2024.
He was questioned on his Celtic links on Thursday, but remained focused on his side’s ongoing end-of-season play-offs.
READ MORE: Ange Postecoglou to Celtic question directly addressed by Australian contact
Nancy was at CF Montreal as assistant to Thierry Henry prior to his move to Columbus, where he worked with a young Johnston.
In 2021, Johnston gave an insight into his instructions working with the French boss,
He said: “Playing in this system really challenges you to do something different. I think we all took some steps in our offensive game this year.
“Wilfried told me, ‘We want you to get in behind,’ and it was a really good stepping stone for me.”
Nancy’s 3-4-3 system would be a change for Celtic, but given the criticisms levelled at their style of play under Rodgers, it could be a refreshing one.
Johnston’s first professional club was Nashville, where he worked with former Celtic man Steve Guppy. O’Neill revealed his conversation with Johnston about Guppy on Friday.
He joined Montreal and spent just a year there before being signed by Ange Postecoglou to replace Josip Juranovic.
Would Wilfried Nancy be a good appointment for Celtic?
Nancy’s success and playing style have caught the eye of various European sides, but he has rejected all offers so far.
With his third year in MLS coming to an end, now could be the time for him to make the step. But is he ready to manage Celtic?
His stance as an attacking-based coach outside of Europe is reminiscent of Postecoglou, but he is not as experienced.
His exciting football would be a refreshing change for Celtic fans, but whether he becomes a serious option remains to be seen.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
