Copland Stand

Philippe Clement was defiant as Rangers’ season concluded disappointingly last campaign. After taking over in October, the Belgian manager initially sparked a resurgence at Ibrox, but the underperforming squad reverted to form in the final stretch. With the title within reach, Rangers struggled with mounting injuries, Dundee’s poor pitch conditions, and the challenge of grinding out results. A psychological barrier against eventual champions Celtic also proved detrimental.

Despite Clement’s talk of a significant rebuild over the summer bringing fresh optimism, recent comments have dampened that hope. Following a midweek friendly against Standard Liege, Clement expressed frustration over the summer transfer activity, citing the departure of five experienced first-team players and managing expectations for youthful additions Hamza Igamane and Clinton Nsiala, who are not expected to start.

Rangers fans, already anxious due to a perceived lack of transfer activity and the chaos surrounding the rebuild of the Copland Stand, found little reassurance in Clement’s remarks. After a 2-1 friendly defeat to Ajax, Clement further unsettled fans by stating that sales would be necessary before new signings could be made and hinted at being misled about the situation at Ibrox before taking the job. This growing frustration has only exacerbated the disconnect between the fans and the increasingly chaotic club.