Rangers Football Club are going through a tough time on and off the football pitch. Manager Philippe Clement has faced questions over his position after a run of poor results has seen the team fall 14 points behind Celtic at the top of the Scottish Premiership. As calls for Clement to be moved on gather speed, a few issues complicate whether he will be parted with.
Financial Constraints
In October, the Rangers announced operating losses of £17 million, up from a £4 million loss last year. This financial decline constrains the club’s capacity to pay the compensation necessary to end Clement’s contract, which was extended to 2028. Sacking him would mean a multimillion-pound pay-off, putting even more strain on the club’s finances.
Managerial Instability
Rangers, who have had four different managers in four seasons, have endured a number of managerial changes in recent years. That instability has fractured team unity and long-term strategy. The board is desperate to avoid repeating this cycle, knowing that regular upheaval is expensive and hampers the development of the club.
Challenges with Succession Planning
Finding an adequate replacement for Clement presents another dilemma. The pool of potential candidates may also be slim, considering the club’s recent reputation for short managerial stays as well as tight economic means. Moreover, the lack of critical top roles, including a permanent chairman and chief executive officer, makes the decision-making related to any management shift challenging.
Support from Club Legends
Ally McCoist and some of Clement’s former Rangers players have rallied behind Clement, insisting his sacking would not be financially prudent at this stage and calling for stability. McCoist stated: “We have to look at the clubs finances, we can’t put a pay off on him and his staff, the best option is to stick with Clement until the end of the season.
Recent Performance and Support from the Fans
A recent win against Celtic has somewhat alleviated some pressure on Clement and further shown what they are capable of with him at the helm. But supporter discontent is clear with fans voicing their frustration with inconsistent displays and the growing chasm behind Celtic in the league table.
Key Takeaways:
Financial Constraints: Rangers posted a £17 million operating loss in October, which could make it harder for them to afford managerial changes.
Contractual Obligations: Clement is under contract until 2028, so to sack him his club would need to pay a big sack.
Managerial turnover: Many changes have fractured cohesion in the squad; the board wants to learn from the past not to repeat it.
Advocate Stability: Club greats argue for the time to implement Clement’s vision, given financial and practical constraints.
Fan frustration: A recent victory against Celtic has only offered a boost in performances, with fans disgruntled at continuing poor performances.
