Celtic have confirmed their starting XI for tonight’s Premiership meeting with Dundee United at Tannadice, as Wilfried Nancy names his team for one of the most significant league fixtures of his short tenure so far.
It has been an intense and emotionally charged few days for the club.
Sunday’s 3–1 defeat to St Mirren in the Premier Sports Cup final was followed by the shock resignation of chairman Peter Lawwell just hours before kick-off tonight, creating a febrile backdrop for a match that already carried huge importance in the title race.
This game is one of Celtic’s two matches in hand on Hearts, who currently sit top of the Premiership on 38 points. Celtic trail by six points, with Hearts also holding a superior goal difference of +21 compared to Celtic’s +14.
That context makes tonight’s fixture more than just another league outing, it is a chance to apply pressure, restore belief, and begin repairing damage done both on and off the pitch.
Nancy’s early spell in Glasgow has offered little breathing room.
League fixtures, European commitments, a cup final and now intense scrutiny of the club’s leadership have combined to create one of the toughest starts any Celtic manager could face. Tonight’s team selection therefore carries weight well beyond tactics.
The Frenchman has spoken about clarity, connection and belief, and the XI he has selected reflects an attempt to stabilise after a difficult week.
Tannadice is never a straightforward venue, particularly under the lights, and Dundee United will see this as an opportunity to test a Celtic side still searching for cohesion.
Sunday’s defeat raised familiar questions about structure, defensive security and decision-making under pressure. Nancy is acutely aware that performances, not explanations, are now required.
The starting XI suggests a desire to regain control of matches rather than chase them, with an emphasis on responsibility and discipline across the pitch.
There is also a psychological element at play. Celtic players have had little time to process the disappointment of Hampden or the turbulence surrounding Lawwell’s resignation.
For some, tonight will be about blocking out noise; for others, it will be about responding to criticism with action.
Injuries continue to shape selection. Cameron Carter-Vickers remains sidelined, while others have been carefully managed following a relentless run of fixtures.
Nancy has acknowledged the physical and mental toll on his squad, and freshness has clearly been a factor in his choices.
Beyond immediate fitness concerns, there are wider squad dynamics. January is approaching, and several players are playing not only for results but for clarity about their roles under a new manager. Nights like this often define pecking orders.
The significance of this fixture is amplified by the league table.
With two games in hand, Celtic have an opportunity to cut Hearts’ lead substantially, but only if they capitalise. Dropped points tonight would not only maintain the gap but deepen the sense of drift that has crept in over the past week.
Nancy has stressed the importance of reaction, and this match offers a clear test of that message. Dundee United will be organised, aggressive and encouraged by the atmosphere, while Celtic must show composure and authority from the outset.
Avoiding a slow start will be crucial. Recent games have seen Celtic concede early or lose momentum at key moments, and Nancy has repeatedly spoken about focus and decision-making.
This starting XI is tasked with showing those lessons have been learned.
Ultimately, this is about execution. Tactical diagrams matter far less than intensity, communication and bravery on the ball. Celtic need leaders on the pitch tonight, players willing to demand responsibility when the environment is uncomfortable.
A positive result would not erase the events of recent days, but it would provide something tangible for supporters to cling to, momentum, belief, and a reminder that the season remains very much alive.
Anything else will invite further scrutiny at a time when pressure is already high.
Here is the Celtic Starting XI to face Dundee United at Tannadice:
Kick-off is at 8:00pm, with live coverage available on Sky Sports Football. We’ll bring full reaction, analysis and player ratings after the final whistle.
