Former Rangers captain Barry Ferguson believes young winger Findlay Curtis is set to explode into life for both club and country.
Ferguson had been excited about Curtis’s potential since hearing about him coming through the academy. After working closely with the teenager during his interim spell as manager, he was left impressed not just by the 19-year-old’s ability, but his attitude and self-belief.
Ferguson gave Curtis his first start in a Rangers shirt and ensured the youngster got meaningful minutes during his tenure.
“I’ve been excited about what this young man has to offer for a long, long time. And now I believe he’s set to live up to the potential I’ve always believed he had within him – for both club and country.”
The former Ibrox skipper shared how he first heard of Curtis a few years back but only got to know him personally last year during his time as manager. He was particularly struck by Curtis’s positive outlook and eagerness to improve.
“We all knew about his ability but it was his positive outlook that made an immediate impression. He’s a lad who wants to learn, is desperate to get better, and eager to work on the aspects of his game that need to be sharpened up.”
He believes these attributes are what will make Curtis a top professional.
His admiration for Curtis extends to his decision to go out on loan to Kilmarnock. Ferguson believes this was the right choice as Curtis wasn’t guaranteed meaningful minutes at Rangers.
“He could easily have stayed at Ibrox beyond the January window, looking to get the odd 10 minutes off the bench. I’ve heard some fans claim he was a better option than Djeidi Gassama and Andreas Skov Olsen down the run-in but it’s easy saying that with the benefit of hindsight.”
He explained that at the time, it looked like Curtis might not get many minutes, so he opted for regular action elsewhere.
Curtis scored five goals in 14 appearances at Kilmarnock, including four in crucial games after the split, a contribution that was key in helping the team avoid relegation.
“That will have done wonders for his development and he’ll be heading back up the M77 a far more mature player for the experience.”
The Making of a Rangers Prospect
Findlay Kenneth Curtis, born on October 1, 2006, in Balfron, Scotland, joined the Rangers academy at the age of six after impressing at a club Soccer School. What began as a journey for a young boy with dreams of playing for the Light Blues has blossomed into one of the most promising careers in Scottish football.
Initially deployed as a striker, Curtis transitioned into a more versatile attacking role, often featuring as a left winger or central midfielder, showcasing his eye for goal and creative flair.
By the time he was breaking into the first-team picture, Curtis had already made waves in youth competitions. His performances in the Scottish Youth Cup, where he netted crucial penalties and contributed to deep runs, caught the eye of senior staff.
In early 2025, he signed a contract extension with Rangers, a clear sign of the club’s faith in his long-term future. Shortly after, he made his senior debut in a Scottish Cup thrashing of Fraserburgh and followed it up with a Europa League substitute appearance against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Barry Ferguson, a Rangers legend with over 400 appearances for the club and a decorated career that included multiple titles and a UEFA Cup final appearance, was quick to spot the teenager’s potential. During his interim managerial stint in early 2025, Ferguson integrated Curtis into the senior setup.
The young winger’s first start came against Aberdeen, where he earned plaudits for his energy and directness, providing an assist in a 2-2 draw. Ferguson was effusive in his praise at the time, highlighting the youngster’s composure under pressure.
Ferguson’s Insight: Beyond Talent
What sets Ferguson’s endorsement apart is not just the technical assessment but the holistic view of Curtis as a professional.
“He’s got that self-belief without arrogance. You see lads come through who have the talent but lack the hunger. Findlay has both in spades. During training, he was always the last one off the pitch, asking questions, wanting feedback. That’s what you want from your young players – they push the seniors and raise the standard.”
This attitude paid dividends. Curtis featured in 13 appearances for Rangers in the 2025/26 season before his loan, scoring once and contributing assists, including notable showings in European ties.
His versatility – able to play across the front line or drop deeper – made him a valuable squad option, though competition for places at Ibrox remains fierce.
“It’s not easy throwing an 18 or 19-year-old into the mix week in, week out. The fans demand results, and the games come thick and fast. But Findlay showed he could handle it. His decision to push for the Kilmarnock loan shows maturity beyond his years.”
The Loan Spell: Growth Through Fire
The move to Kilmarnock in late January 2026 proved transformative. Under manager Neil McCann, who had previously worked alongside Ferguson at Rangers, Curtis was thrust into regular starting action.
In 14 appearances, he bagged five goals, many of them in high-stakes matches post-split that helped Killie secure their Premiership status.
Fans at Rugby Park quickly fell in love with the dynamic winger, known for his direct dribbling, powerful right-footed shots, and willingness to track back.
Curtis’s four post-split goals were instrumental, turning matches that could have ended in defeat into vital points. One standout performance saw him score in a crucial win over Dundee United, earning Man of the Match honours and further cementing his reputation.
“Playing men’s football, week in, week out, against physical, experienced defenders – that’s where you learn your trade. He’ll come back stronger, tactically sharper, and mentally tougher. Loans like this are gold for development.”
The experience also boosted his international profile. Curtis has represented Scotland at various youth levels and earned senior recognition, including squad call-ups and a first international goal.
Looking Ahead: Club and Country Ambitions
As the 2026/27 season approaches, speculation swirls around Curtis’s role at Rangers. Club officials have signalled plans to re-integrate him into the first-team squad under the new management setup.
“Rangers need players with that Rangers DNA – academy graduates who understand the club. Findlay has that. If he hits the ground running, he can be a real game-changer on both wings or through the middle.”
For Curtis himself, the focus remains on improvement. In interviews following his loan spell, he emphasised his desire to repay the faith shown by Rangers and push for consistent minutes.
His journey from six-year-old trialist to first-team prospect and loan star embodies the academy’s success story.
Analysts point to his physical attributes, standing around 1.80m with good pace and strength, combined with technical skills as reasons for his rapid rise. Market value estimates hover around €2 million, reflecting growing interest, but his heart remains at Ibrox.
The Bigger Picture for Scottish Football
Ferguson’s praise for Curtis comes at a time when Scottish football is crying out for homegrown talent to step up.
With Rangers aiming to challenge domestically and in Europe, investing in players like Curtis is crucial. His story also highlights the value of interim managers like Ferguson in bridging gaps and nurturing youth.
“He’s got the tools. Now it’s about consistency and taking opportunities when they come.”
With the loan spell behind him, Findlay Curtis returns to Rangers not just older, but battle-hardened and ready to make his mark.
Fans will be watching eagerly as the next chapter unfolds – one that Barry Ferguson, and many others, believe will be filled with success for club and country.
