In a surprising turn of events, Rangers FC has decided to extend the contract of manager Philippe Clement, a move that has sparked a lively debate among fans and pundits alike. The decision came just ahead of the new Scottish Premiership season, leaving many questioning whether it was the right call. Marvin Bartley, a pundit on Clyde 1 Superscoreboard, recently shed light on the dynamics within the Rangers dressing room, suggesting that some players believed they could “outlast” Clement.
Bartley’s comments provide a glimpse into the internal struggles the team has faced. He noted that there was a faction among the players who felt confident that, regardless of performance, they could survive changes at the managerial level. “From what I was hearing coming out of the dressing room, there were one or two players who had the mentality of I’ll outlast the manager,” Bartley said. “I’ve been in dressing rooms before, and it is very difficult for a manager to turn around if players think that’s a possibility.”
The atmosphere within the squad has reportedly been tense, with divisions apparent in the approach and attitude towards Clement’s management style. While some players may have harbored doubts, Bartley emphasized that extending Clement’s contract could be a crucial step in unifying the team and establishing a clearer direction. He added, “It’s vital for a manager to have the backing of the board, especially when things aren’t going as planned. Players need to know that their manager is there for the long haul.”
Clement joined Rangers with a solid reputation after his previous stints in management, but his tenure has not been without challenges. The early season has seen mixed results, leading to scrutiny over his tactical choices and squad selections. Bartley argued that the decision to offer Clement an extension reflects a commitment from the club to stabilize the environment and foster a culture of accountability among players.
Supporters of the move believe that continuity is essential for the club, especially as they navigate the pressures of competing at the top level in Scottish football. However, the contrasting views among players have raised questions about morale and unity within the squad. Bartley’s insights suggest that addressing these divisions will be key to Clement’s success moving forward.
As the Rangers prepare for the upcoming matches, the focus will likely shift to how Clement can leverage this contract extension to galvanize his squad. With the backing of the board secured, the hope is that the players will rally around their manager and work collectively to achieve their goals.
In the weeks ahead, all eyes will be on Ibrox as the club seeks to build momentum and restore confidence on the pitch. How Clement handles the existing tensions within the dressing room could very well determine the trajectory of his tenure and, ultimately, the fortunes of Rangers FC this season.
