Wilfried Nancy will take charge of Celtic in Europe for the first time this Thursday and there’s no easing-in period.

Roma arrive at Parkhead under the lights for a high-stakes Europa League tie, with Celtic still needing at least four points from their final three group matches to stand a chance of reaching the knockout rounds.

After losing his debut match at home to Hearts, Nancy now needs a response and quickly.

Kick-off Time & How to Watch

  • Date: Thursday, December 11

  • Kick-off: 20:00 GMT

  • Venue: Celtic Park, Glasgow

  • Live on: TNT Sports 3

  • Coverage starts: 19:30 GMT

Celtic Team News

It’s unclear how many changes Wilfried Nancy will make from the side that lost 2-1 to Hearts on Sunday, especially with a cup final looming just three days later.

Celtic lined up in a 3-4-3 formation at the weekend. Kieran Tierney started wide left in a back three alongside Liam Scales and Auston Trusty, while Callum McGregor operated as the central pivot. Questions remain over whether Nancy will revert to a back four or stick with the same shape in Europe.

One thing’s for sure: this is a major night for the Frenchman, who is still getting to know his squad.

Celtic Predicted XI (3-4-3)

GK: Kasper Schmeichel
CB: Kieran Tierney
CB: Liam Scales
CB: Auston Trusty
RM: Sebastian Tounekti
CM: Callum McGregor (C)
CM: Arne Engels
LM: Yang
RF: Benjamin Nygren
CF: Daizen Maeda
LF: Hatate

Match Officials

UEFA has confirmed a mostly Romanian officiating team for this Europa League clash:

  • Referee: István Kovács (Romania)

  • Assistant Referees: Mihai Marica, Ferencz Tunyogi

  • Fourth Official: Szabolcs Kovacs

  • VAR: Cătălin Popa (Romania)

  • AVAR: Jérôme Brisard (France)

Kovács is no stranger to Parkhead. He refereed Celtic vs Astana in 2016 and was in charge for the infamous 4-1 home defeat to Sparta Prague during the Covid season.

Roma’s Form & Group Picture

Roma’s domestic form has been patchy, but they’ve already won in Glasgow this season — beating Rangers at Ibrox. They have lost two back-to-back league games, though.

Final Notes

With Wilfried Nancy just settling in and a League Cup Final looming, Thursday night could set the tone for what’s to come.

Can the new boss deliver his first win under the lights? Or will European pressure mount early in his Celtic reign?

Confirmed lineups will be posted here at 7 pm on matchday. Check back for full team news and reaction.