Derek McInnes Takes the Helm: Can Rangers Overcome Past Failures?
The end of the Scottish Premiership season and subsequent managerial changes have overshadowed Rangers' third-place finish last term. After a disappointing campaign marred by a post-split collapse, the club has appointed Derek McInnes as the new head coach, replacing Danny Rohl, who left for Red Bull Salzburg in June. Fans are eager for improvement after a reported £40m spending spree resulted in two trophyless seasons. As the McInnes era begins, supporters wonder if they can expect better results this time around. Key Context: Rohl's tenure ended amid four consecutive defeats, diminishing any goodwill he had. McInnes, a former Aberdeen boss, is seen by some as a sensible choice, though doubts linger regarding his ability to secure major wins as a manager. McInnes has been praised for his experience, particularly after coming close to winning the Scottish title with Hearts. Former Rangers midfielder Andy Halliday noted that McInnes is now a more well-rounded manager than he was in 2017, suggesting his timing for this role is ideal. However, the lack of a strong leadership presence on the pitch, especially after the departure of James Tavernier, remains a concern. The club has bolstered its squad with local talent, including Lawrence Shankland and Ross McCrorie, both of whom have strong ties to Rangers. Shankland, a proven scorer, is expected to lead the line effectively, with Halliday asserting that hitting 20 goals should be the minimum expectation for a Rangers striker. The pressure on McInnes will be immense, especially with the looming Old Firm clash against Celtic. A strong start is crucial, as Rangers face six league games before this critical encounter. Halliday emphasizes the importance of a flawless performance leading up to this match, highlighting the relentless expectations at Rangers.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-07-28