Wilfried Nancy is closing in on becoming Celtic’s next manager, and while the Frenchman has impressed in MLS with his possession-based, attacking philosophy, Chris Sutton believes his appointment could go one of two ways.
Nancy, who led Columbus Crew to success against the odds, has been lauded for his bold, attacking style of play.
And that’s what caught the eyes of Celtic, who are looking to replace Brendan Rodgers, who handed in his resignation almost two weeks ago.
However, Sutton has urged caution, while also reminding fans that a so-called “risky” appointment has worked out before.
He wrote in the Daily Record:
“But I’ve got two words for anyone ready to make quick assumptions – Ange Postecoglou. Now I know Nancy and Postecoglou and Nancy are very different managers, at different stages of their careers.
“Postecoglou had won titles in Australia and Japan as a club boss and led his nation at a World Cup as well. Nancy is a relative rookie in that regard, having been a main man in the dugout for less than five years.
“But that doesn’t mean he isn’t a very good head coach – or can’t be a success at Celtic. It just means that he needs to be given a chance. He also could do with time, but any new manager will know that’s not something readily available in these parts.
“It would be a gamble appointing someone who doesn’t know the European environment, let alone has little knowledge of the Scottish league. But there’s an element of risk around any boss coming in.
“This one would have more, but clearly Celtic have seen something in him. Nancy might be the next big thing and they are being smart being the ones getting in there first.
“He might be out of his depth. We don’t know. What we do now is no matter who gets the position – it’s a really tough job at the moment.
“There’s a lot of work required and that’s why being decisive and getting someone in now is so crucial. If it is to be Nancy, then it has to be sorted quickly to allow him to get down to business.
“The current situation will need a talented manager regardless.”
Celtic are expected to ramp up talks with Nancy and Columbus Crew this weekend, with a compensation package of up to £2 million required to secure his services.
The club, despite the numerous names they have been linked to, have made Nancy their main target.
The appointment will split opinion, with some not happy with an unknown face coming into the club, but Paul Tisdale has recommended an up-and-coming coach, who is ready for a big move.
The Celtic fan base has to be united and get behind the manager and the players, with a big few months ahead.
With the MLS season over, if a deal is struck with Nancy, he can start straightaway.
He’s the cheapest option
Does Mr.Sutton get paid for saying…” He might do well…or he might not ” ?…That’s the job for me.