There have been a few interesting developments in Scottish football over the past week. Hibernian’s loss to Dundee United, Inverness Caledonian Thistle going into administration, and Celtic’s draw with Atalanta were all somewhat expected outcomes.
However, what caught many off guard was Rangers’ defeat to Kilmarnock with six key players missing from the squad. The backlash from fans was immediate, with calls for manager Philippe Clement to be replaced. This reaction is not new for Rangers supporters, who have shown little patience for poor performances or setbacks.
The history of managerial turnover at Rangers is concerning. Giovanni van Bronckhorst was let go despite leading the team to the Europa League final and Champions League group stages. Michael Beale, his successor, also faced a quick exit after a defeat to Aberdeen.
Now, all eyes are on Philippe Clement. Despite signing a contract extension until 2028 and pleading for time to rebuild the team, his position is under scrutiny. If Rangers falter against St Mirren or Aberdeen, his future could be in jeopardy.
The question remains whether constant managerial changes are beneficial for the club’s long-term success. Stability and patience may be the key to challenging Celtic for domestic honors. Clement, with his experience and track record, deserves the chance to work with the resources at his disposal and lead Rangers to greatness.
It is crucial for the Rangers hierarchy to resist the urge to make hasty decisions based on short-term results. Building a strong foundation and supporting the manager’s vision is essential for sustained success. Only time will tell if Rangers can break the cycle of managerial instability and establish themselves as a dominant force in Scottish football.