Celtic in turmoil as Lawwell departs and Wilfried Nancy’s tenure comes under pressure

Celtic’s leadership upheaval intensified this week as chairman Peter Lawwell announced his departure, prompting renewed scrutiny of the club’s direction just as manager Wilfried Nancy’s tenure appears to falter. The club said Lawwell will step down, with chief executive Michael Nicholson expected to handle public-facing duties in the near term.

On the field, Celtic have suffered a fourth straight league loss, including a defeat at Dundee United last week, described by observers as the worst start for a Celtic boss in recent memory. The results have increased pressure on Nancy as fans and analysts question whether the manager’s approach aligns with the club’s ambitions.

Off the field, the club’s communications approach has drawn criticism. Reports detail a series of missteps in the days surrounding Lawwell’s exit, and questions about the roles of the club’s head of football operations and the recruitment director. Nancy has also faced distractions tied to social media, including a national radio interview about a WhatsApp profile change and a self-deprecating image posted on X after vowing to stay off social media to block out noise. He has asserted his familiarity with Scottish football by noting a near signing for Carlisle United as a player.

Supporters have pressed for more dialogue with the board. Lawwell’s departure has been followed by public statements and limited public engagement from Nicholson, a deployment that some observers say lacks detail and leadership. Critics say the club’s communications policy has tended to inflame tensions with the supporter base rather than heal them. Celtic Fans Collective and other groups have called for more collaboration as the club navigates this period of transition.

Beyond Nancy, questions surround the club’s governance. Dermot Desmond, a major shareholder, has previously used official channels to criticize the board during Brendan Rodgers’ departure, calling the situation divisive and misleading. Desmond’s son Ross drew attention at the club’s AGM with a speech that reinforced the board’s supporters while acknowledging that European success has been limited by broader financial conditions. These past episodes illustrate an ongoing discord around Celtic even as the club seeks stability.

Nancy’s tactical approach has been scrutinized. Reports indicate his preferred formation has included 3-4-2-1 and has been paired with a squad sometimes seen as lacking fit or form, fueling perceptions of drift. Those around him say he needs clearer guidance and stronger support from leadership as he adapts to the pressures of managing Celtic and facing public scrutiny.

As the club contemplates its next steps, analysts say the focus should be on clear communication, stability, and rebuilding trust with fans. Lawwell’s departure, Nancy’s uncertain future, and Nicholson’s evolving public role point to a turning point for Celtic. Whether the club can restore a shared narrative will require meaningful dialogue with supporters and a coherent plan for football operations.