Celtic fans must take note of Alistair Johnston’s comments on Wilfried Nancy as manager search takes new twist
Brendan Rodgers’ departure has left the Celtic hierarchy scrambling to find a new manager for the 2025-26 campaign.
Dermot Desmond launched a scathing attack on Rodgers despite two successful spells at Celtic Park, with the former manager accused of making up lies about the lack of transfers behind the scenes.
Football Insider understands that multiple Premier League clubs are keen on Rodgers, but there has been very little movement over the 52-year-old’s next steps after splitting from the Hoops.
Of course, the main focus back in Glasgow now is finding someone to take over the reins while Martin O’Neill takes charge on an interim basis this season.
Wilfried Nancy is on the shortlist for the next Celtic manager
According to The Telegraph (31 October), Columbus Crew’s Wilfried Nancy is among a number of foreign-based coaches being considered for the managerial role after Rodgers’ shock exit.
Robbie Keane, Kieran McKenna and Ange Postecoglou are all on the list at Celtic, unsurprisingly, but fans will be paying special attention to what one of their current players has said about Nancy.
Alistair Johnston made a name for himself in the MLS, first featuring for Nashville SC before signing for CF Montreal in 2022. In 39 games, he notched four goals and four assists from right-back.
It quickly saw him earn a move to Celtic, where he has accumulated 116 appearances, notching seven goals and 21 assists, but now experiences some time out of the lineup.
Alistair Johnston is a huge fan of Columbus Crew’s manager
Speaking back in 2022, Johnston spoke highly about Nancy, saying, “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,” and that is exactly the kind of mentality that the next manager needs to bring to Celtic Park.
MLS’s seasons make a move rather tricky to complete, but if the Hoops are serious about hiring the 48-year-old as Rodgers’ successor, they must make a move very quickly for his signature.