Celtic close to Wilfried Nancy appointment as Hoops seek fresh hands on deck

Celtic are poised to name Wilfried Nancy as their new manager, replacing Brendan Rodgers, according to multiple reports in the Scottish media.

The highly regarded Columbus Crew head coach is expected to leave Major League Soccer and take charge of the Scottish Premiership champions in the coming days.

Rodgers was sacked after a dismal start to the campaign left Celtic trailing early leaders Hearts by a significant margin. 

Veteran boss Martin O’Neill was installed as interim manager while the club conducted an extensive search for a permanent successor.

That process now appears to have reached its conclusion, with Nancy emerging as the chosen candidate to lead the Hoops forward.

The 47-year-old Frenchman has enjoyed considerable success in North America. After guiding CF Montréal to the MLS Eastern Conference semi-finals and a Canadian Championship title, he moved to Columbus Crew in 2023 and promptly delivered the MLS Cup in his first season.

His attractive, possession-based style earned widespread praise and attracted interest from several European clubs, including sides in his native Ligue 1.

However, Celtic have won the race for his signature. Nancy will become the latest high-profile coach to cross the Atlantic and try to conquer Scottish football, following in the footsteps of compatriots such as Ange Postecoglou, who left the same role for Tottenham in 2023 after back-to-back titles.

An official announcement from Celtic Park is expected imminently, with Nancy set to be unveiled before the next round of Premiership fixtures. 

His arrival will end speculation about a potential return to France and mark the beginning of an intriguing new era for the Glasgow giants as they bid to reclaim top spot and defend their crown.