Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy stood firm against mounting criticism, delivering a raw and honest assessment of his early tenure at the club during a remarkable press conference ahead of Saturday's Old Firm derby.

The French tactician, who has lost five of his first seven matches since taking over in December, refused to back down from the mounting pressure, instead offering a passionate plea for patience and understanding.

Speaking candidly, Nancy emphasized that context matters: he's only had 13 training sessions with his team, compared to the typical four-week pre-season period. 'It's totally normal that you guys kill me,' he declared, displaying remarkable composure. 'I'm fine with that because I know where I want to go.'

The manager insisted that his vision for Celtic remains unshaken, despite current results. 'Judge me in a few weeks or months,' he challenged journalists. 'Look at our games and analyze whether we should have won or lost.'

With Celtic sitting just three points behind league leaders Hearts and three ahead of Rangers, Nancy remains committed to his ambitious goals. 'I want to create a legacy here,' he proclaimed. 'I am going to die for this club, for sure.'

The upcoming match against Rangers at Celtic Park represents a critical moment for Nancy to prove his mettle and begin turning results in his favor. His unwavering belief and transparent communication suggest a manager confident in his long-term strategy, even while acknowledging current challenges.

The club's board and players have publicly backed Nancy, providing crucial support during this transitional period. As Saturday's high-stakes match approaches, all eyes will be on whether Nancy's passionate vision can translate into the on-field success Celtic supporters desperately desire.