When Celtic is Not the Focus and the Media is Talking About Replacement Managers at Ibrox
The media’s attention has shifted from Celtic to Ibrox, specifically to the struggling manager, Philippe Clement. Ex-players are being wheeled out to criticize Clement, and replacement managers are already being discussed. This pattern is all too familiar, and it’s only a matter of time before Clement faces the axe.
Todd Cantwell, an Ibrox player, recently spoke out against Clement, stating that he’s the most relatable manager he’s had. However, Cantwell’s comments seemed self-serving, and his criticism of Clement’s tactics was veiled. Cantwell’s history with Clement is complicated, and his comments should be taken with a grain of salt.
Meanwhile, Kevin Muscat, a former Ibrox target, has been linked to the managerial role again. Muscat currently coaches at Shanghai Port, but would he give up his secure position to take on the challenging task of managing Ibrox? The club’s history of managerial turnover and unrealistic expectations make it an unappealing prospect.
Since 2012, Ibrox has become a graveyard for managers. Many have taken the role, but none have achieved lasting success. The pressure to win every game, coupled with the financial disparity between Ibrox and Celtic, makes it an impossible task.
Clement’s self-belief was initially convincing, but his failure to win a single Glasgow Derby has sealed his fate. With six points separating Ibrox from Celtic and Aberdeen, the writing is on the wall.
Former Ibrox players like Kris Boyd and Barry Ferguson will continue to criticize Clement, fueling the media’s narrative. Ross Pilcher’s recent article discussing the fates of Gio van Bronckhorst and Michael Beale highlights the inevitable outcome.
Ibrox’s cycle of hiring and firing managers will continue until they realize that giving a manager time is essential. However, this approach is unlikely, and the club will continue to repeat the same mistakes.
The prospect of Steven Gerrard returning to Ibrox has been floated, but his managerial record since leaving the club is underwhelming. Gerrard’s potential return would only perpetuate the cycle of failure.
Ibrox’s obsession with being “Real Rangers men” and their emphasis on Protestant values are misguided. These factors won’t win leagues; only quality management and players can.
The club’s attempts to emulate their past glories have led to financial struggles and mediocrity. They must accept their current status and rebuild sustainably.
As Celtic watches from afar, they can take comfort in knowing that Ibrox’s instability will continue to hinder their progress. The pressure on Clement will only intensify, and his eventual departure is inevitable.
The comments section is filled with Celtic fans reveling in Ibrox’s misfortune. Thomas Daly’s laughter-filled response encapsulates the sentiment, while berniebhoy notes that Ibrox’s “all-in” approach to stopping Celtic’s 10-in-a-row has backfired.
In conclusion, Ibrox’s managerial merry-go-round will continue until they address their underlying issues. Celtic, meanwhile, can focus on their own success, knowing that their rivals are unlikely to pose a significant threat anytime soon.