Celtic fans have a unique new chant for Nancy Wilfried – the man himself clearly loves it

Celtic fans have a unique new chant for Nancy Wilfried — the man himself clearly loves it

In what might be the most unexpected turn of events at Celtic Park this season, supporters of the Hoops have been caught on camera belting out an unlikely new chant for manager Wilfried Nancy — and to the astonishment of many, the French boss didn’t just tolerate it — he genuinely seemed to enjoy it.

The chant started innocuously enough during Celtic’s thrilling 4–2 comeback victory over Livingston on Saturday, December 27, 2025 — a match that saw all six goals scored in a breathtaking opening 45 minutes and ultimately lifted Celtic within three points of league leaders Hearts with a match in hand. 

From Groans to Glory: How the Chant Began

Celtic supporters — notoriously passionate and quick to turn criticism into humour — initially created the chant after weeks of mixed results under Nancy. The new manager’s early reign in Glasgow was anything but smooth, with consecutive defeats in the Premiership, Europa League and League Cup sparking frustration among fans. 

In several earlier games, crowds had been openly critical — most famously during a 2–1 loss to Dundee United when segments of the Parkhead faithful could be heard shouting for Nancy to be shown the door. 

But fans being fans, what started as criticism quickly evolved into something playful. Rather than a flat-out anti-Nancy tirade, supporters began singing a weirdly affectionate chant — repeating his first name (“Wil-fried!”), elongating it, and then pairing it with whimsical chants about belief, resilience and Hoops spirit, all set to melodies Celtic supporters have used for decades.

It was, in a word, surreal — and hilariously joyful.

Nancy’s Reaction Was Priceless

Usually calm and thoughtful in post-match interviews, Nancy’s reaction when the chant rippled around Celtic Park in the second half was priceless. Cameras caught the 48-year-old Frenchman smiling, nodding and even gesturing in appreciation, as if he finally felt accepted — a rare moment of harmony between the Celtic boss and supporters after a turbulent start to his tenure. 

In his post-match press conference, Nancy didn’t shy away from talking about the fans’ energy. With a grin, he mentioned that “the passion of Celtic supporters is one of the great joys of managing here” — a line that instantly ignited social media. Clips from Celtic TV showed him listening to the crowd sing and giving a thumbs-up, something rare for a manager under scrutiny. 

Why Celtic Fans Turned the Chant Around

Historically, Celtic fans are fiercely loyal, creative with chants and never afraid to poke fun at those they love — or those they’re unsure about. The evolution of this chant reflects a fanbase that was initially exasperated with Nancy’s rocky start but chose humour and unity over outright hostility.

The chant — now trending on fan forums and social platforms — mixes Nancy’s name with Celtic’s iconic “Hoops” identity, creating a catchy (if slightly bizarre) anthem that celebrates heart over perfection. It’s both a poke at past struggles and a hopeful cry for future success.

From Doubt to Delight

Whether the chant sticks around for future matches remains to be seen — but one thing is clear: Celtic fans have reminded everyone yet again that this club’s supporters are as unpredictable as they are passionate. And for Wilfried Nancy, this quirky moment may have been just what he needed to feel the warmth of Celtic Park even amid pressure and expectation.

Love it or hate it, this chant has become one of the most talked-about stories in Scottish football — and with Nancy smiling along, it’s safe to say Celtic Park has a new anthem for the ages.