Auston Trusty believes Celtic’s upcoming Europa League meeting with Roma could offer the perfect opportunity to steady the mood around the club and bring supporters fully behind new manager Wilfried Nancy.
The defender shared his thoughts ahead of Thursday’s match at Celtic Park, emphasising how a strong result could help calm doubts that surfaced following the Frenchman’s difficult debut in the dugout.
Nancy’s first match in charge ended in a disappointing 2-1 home defeat to Hearts, prompting criticism from fans and the media as Celtic aim to regain momentum during a demanding stretch of fixtures.
With a Premier Sports Cup final also looming on Sunday against St Mirren, Trusty acknowledged the pressure surrounding his manager but insisted the squad remains committed to helping him settle.
Players Urge Unity as Schedule Intensifies
Speaking at the club’s pre-match media conference, Trusty was asked how much a win over Roma could do for Nancy as he navigates his opening week in charge.
The 27-year-old was clear about the impact it could have on perceptions from outside.
“I think exactly what you’re alluding to, bringing everybody on board,” he said.
Trusty noted that early criticism was influenced by the timing of Nancy’s arrival, with Celtic thrown into a run of critical games immediately after his appointment.
“I think the fact that we lost our previous game, people can start to say stuff, but again if you win a game, then people don’t say anything,” he added.
He highlighted the scrutiny that comes with managing a club of Celtic’s size and the importance of early results in shaping opinions.
“So again, it’s just the nature of the beast and it’s the nature of how big this club is,” he said.
“And when you get people on your side, they’re really on your side.”
Trusty Calls for Patience from Supporters
Trusty took a moment to address the fans directly, urging them to consider the circumstances surrounding Nancy’s arrival and the challenges he has inherited.
“I’m just asking fans… to understand what he’s coming to do,” he said.
He acknowledged that stepping into a new role at a club with high expectations is never straightforward, especially in a week loaded with decisive fixtures.
“And it’s a hard job. It’s a tough time he’s had in a sense of coming in a period where we have really important games,” Trusty explained.
His message underscored the need for supporters to show patience as the manager works to implement his ideas and forge relationships with the players.
A Demanding First Week for the New Boss
Celtic’s packed schedule has left little room for Nancy to gradually adapt.
“You have a league game against first place, you have your Europa League game, you have a cup final all in the same week as his first three games,” Trusty noted.
The defender emphasised that even an experienced coach would need time to adjust, let alone one stepping into a new league, new country, and new expectations.
“So, I think for any individual coming into a new environment, a new job, new role at a club of this stature, it takes time,” he said.
Despite the early setback, Trusty expressed confidence that the squad is determined to support their manager and deliver performances that align with the club’s ambitions.
As Celtic prepare for Roma’s visit, the match represents more than just a European test.
It offers Nancy a chance to make a statement, the players an opportunity to rally, and supporters a moment to reconnect with the club’s direction during this transitional period.
A positive result would not only lift spirits but also provide a foundation for the challenges that lie ahead — including Sunday’s cup final, where Celtic will aim for silverware under their new manager’s early stewardship.
