Nancy chooses optimistic approach despite Celtic’s defeat to Roma

Wilfried Nancy believes Celtic are heading in the right direction despite losing back-to-back games to start his tenure.

The Scottish Premiership side lost 3-0 to Roma in the Europa League, with an own goal from Liam Scales being followed by a brace from Brighton loanee Evan Ferguson before the interval.

After defeats against Hearts and Roma, Nancy has become the first manager in Celtic’s history to lose each of his first two games in charge of the club.

It was also just the second time Celtic have trailed by three or more goals at half-time at Celtic Park in a major European game, previously doing so against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League back in September 2017 (lost 0-5).

Kelechi Iheanacho saw a goal disallowed in the loss, while Arne Engels also missed a penalty, but Celtic were second-best against the Serie A outfit.

However, Nancy insisted that his players showed all the right signs to suggest they can turn their dismal season around.

“The reality is we were not able to cope with the intensity. First half was difficult, we were not able to come out of the pressure,” Nancy told TNT Sports.

Post match reaction from the manager #CelticASRoma | #UEL | #CelticFC

— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) December 11, 2025

“It wasn’t easy for my players. I don’t like to talk about luck. The first goal didn’t help us.

The second half was better. I cannot tell you [the players] didn’t try, they tried. I’m not concerned, I really liked the reaction. They deserve at least to score one goal and the dynamic could change.

“The result isn’t what we want, but I’ve seen good things. I would like the results to change today. This is a bit difficult because my players deserve a bit more. The belief of my players is really strong.

“I respect the fans, they are really important for us. We play for them. I know where we are going. I can see a lot of good things. I believe in what we do.”

Nancy’s next test at the helm comes in the form of the Scottish League Cup final, with Celtic facing St. Mirren at Hampden Park on Sunday.

In the Europa League standings, Celtic occupy the final play-off spot after winning just seven points from six games so far.