Wilfried Nancy is preparing to reshape the Celtic squad in the January transfer window, with personality set to guide recruitment. The head coach is clear that technical skill alone will not be enough for new arrivals, especially under pressure at a club with demanding expectations.
The French coach, who left Columbus Crew to join Celtic earlier this month, experienced four straight defeats at the start. A 3-1 win against Aberdeen on Sunday eased early tension, yet Celtic remain six points behind Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts heading into the next round of fixtures.
Nancy confirmed that character will be central when Celtic begin business as the window opens on Thursday. "We have a lot of ability in terms of the way we play," Nancy said
ahead of their meeting with Livingstonon Saturday. "It is important that, when you sign players, they need to have personality. "
For Nancy, personality links closely with resilience in high-pressure matches and consistency across long seasons. "This [Celtic]is a big club. To play here is not always easy. It is so, so important to have players who can play here at a club like this. " That demand shapes both selection and future signings.
Nancy highlighted current examples within the Celtic dressing room when explaining the traits valued. "Everybody knows Kieran [Tierney], he added. I knew him before I came here. He's an important player for us. There are different kinds of personalities. Kieran is not a vocal leader, but shows on the pitch. Callum [McGregor]also shows on the pitch, but he's a vocal leader, too. We have other players like this.When I talk about personalities, it's not only to be vocal, it's to have the right attitude when it is difficult. This means when we attack, can we keep showing ourselves for each other, can we still press, or can we defend like crazy in the moment? Its more about attitude for me. This is what I am looking for. "
Results and league position underline why Celtic are keen to add such profiles in January. The club’s recent form, gap to Hearts and first victory under Nancy can be set out clearly.
The manager’s stance suggests incoming players must handle scrutiny from supporters and media, especially with Celtic chasing Hearts in the title race. Nancy has stressed that mental strength, work rate and discipline will be as important as tactical understanding during recruitment talks with potential targets.
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As Celtic move towards the Livingston fixture and the opening of the window, Nancy’s criteria are already set. The coach wants players ready for intense matches and regular title pressure, believing attitude, personality and leadership on the pitch will be key to closing the six-point gap.
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