AliousIncoming Rangers Boss Handed Grim Warning Amid ‘Catastrophic’ Ibrox Shake-Up
Rangers’ search for a new permanent manager is unfolding under turbulent circumstances that could seriously impact the club’s ability to attract top-tier candidates. Recent internal developments, particularly the abrupt departure of interim boss Barry Ferguson, have triggered concern over who really holds the power at Ibrox—and how much influence the next head coach will actually have.
Ferguson, a club legend, stepped in after Philippe Clement’s exit and seemed open to staying on in some capacity. However, his final match in charge came against Hibernian on 17 May, and his swift departure has prompted speculation about behind-the-scenes friction—especially with the club’s recruitment team.
Scottish football journalist Keith Jackson has raised alarm bells, suggesting Ferguson may have walked away due to disagreements with Rangers’ recruitment strategy, particularly regarding decisions to offload players like Neraysho Kasanwirjo and Vaclav Cerny. Jackson labeled the recruitment department’s past work as “catastrophically poor” and warned that giving them full control over transfers could prove disastrous for the incoming manager.
“The idea that the recruitment team is calling the shots on transfers—based on their history—is a nightmare start for any new manager,” Jackson said during *Hotline Live* on 20 May. “If they’re sticking to their own plan regardless of the head coach’s input, then good luck to whoever takes over.”
With Everton’s outgoing Director of Football, Kevin Thelwell, expected to assume the sporting director role at Ibrox, the club appears poised for a significant squad overhaul. Thelwell’s performance at Everton—though mixed—has brought cautious optimism among fans, especially when paired with incoming financial backing from Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises.
However, the loss of key players like Cerny and veteran defender Leon Balogun, who played integral roles in the just-concluded season, has stirred concern. Supporters are now demanding not just change, but improvements, with expectations of serious investment in quality reinforcements during the summer transfer window.
The next manager—whether it’s a returning Steven Gerrard or another high-profile figure—must be ready to navigate complex dynamics between the coaching bench and the boardroom. The success of Rangers’ 2025/26 campaign could hinge not only on tactics and signings but also on whether harmony can be established at the leadership level.
In short, Ibrox may appear an enticing opportunity on paper, but the new head coach will walk into a club in transition—and one where power struggles off the pitch could be just as daunting as battles on it.
Alious
