Martin O’Neill reportedly declined the opportunity to return as Celtic manager before the club appointed Wilfried Nancy, leaving a Sky Sports pundit questioning the decision.
The revelation has sparked debate over the direction of the Scottish Premiership side’s managerial search. Former Celtic player and current Sky Sports analyst, Kris Commons, expressed his bewilderment at the appointment of Nancy, stating, “I just find it baffling, honestly. Martin O’Neill, a Celtic legend, must have turned down the job. Why would you go for someone who’s never managed in Europe?” Nancy, previously head coach of CF Montréal in Major League Soccer, was announced as Celtic’s new manager on June 3rd, 2023.
Commons’ comments highlight the perceived disconnect between the club’s history and the relatively unproven profile of Nancy. O’Neill, who managed Celtic from 2000 to 2005, achieving a domestic treble in 2001, remains a hugely popular figure among the club’s supporters. The decision to overlook a manager with such a strong connection to Celtic in favor of Nancy has prompted scrutiny of the club’s recruitment process and long-term strategy.
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