Football’s habit of folding back in on itself rarely produces a storyline as odd as this. Alex Crook has claimed that Russell Martin is un...
Football’s habit of folding back in on itself rarely produces a storyline as odd as this.
If accurate, it would complete a strange circle of movement.
Wilfried Nancy left Columbus Crew to take over at Celtic following the exit of Brendan Rodgers earlier this season. Now, the man who started the campaign as Rangers manager could be in line to replace him in Ohio.
Martin’s spell across the city was brief and chaotic. His time in the role ended in disaster, culminating in him having to be escorted from the stadium for his own safety. It was an abrupt and ugly conclusion, and one that made him available for elsewhere.
That context makes the link to Columbus all the more striking. Wilfried left the MLS with a strong reputation built on tactical clarity and success. Whoever follows him will inherit a side with expectations and a clear identity already in place.
From a Celtic perspective, the focus is less on who replaces Nancy elsewhere and more on how his reign in Glasgow develops from here.
The early weeks have been about bedding in ideas and steadying a squad that was drifting when Rodgers walked away.
There have been signs of structure returning, even if results have not always matched the intent. Supporters are concerned about the players currently trying to fit the system which has made things chaotic.
The next phase is critical. January recruitment will be Nancy’s first real chance to shape the group in his image, and the schedule ahead offers little breathing space. Domestic pressure remains intense, while European commitments mean the chance to keep momentum going is almost impossible.
In Glasgow, you have to figure things out very quickly. Russell Martin knows that and Wilfried will have already felt the heat from his poor start. Next up for the Hoops is Motherwell.
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