Barry Ferguson Claims Rangers are a Better Club Than Celtic: A Closer Look at the Debate
In a recent interview, former Rangers captain Barry Ferguson made a bold statement that has set the football world buzzing: “Rangers is a better club than Celtic.” Ferguson, a legend of the Ibrox club, cited various reasons to back up his claim, and his words have ignited a fresh round of debate between the two Glasgow giants and their fiercely loyal fanbases.
While Celtic has enjoyed immense success in recent years, both domestically and in Europe, Rangers’ resurgence after their financial troubles and subsequent return to the top flight has re-established the club as one of Scotland’s preeminent forces. Ferguson’s statement, however, goes beyond just titles and trophies—it delves into player quality, club culture, and overall team performance. Let’s examine the key reasons he gave to back up his assertion.
1. Quality of Players: Rangers Lead the Way
Ferguson’s strongest argument lies in the quality of the players at Rangers. According to him, the level of talent at Ibrox is currently superior to that of Celtic. This is a point that’s difficult to ignore, given Rangers’ recent success in the Scottish Premiership under manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst and his successor, Michael Beale. Rangers’ squad features international players, many of whom have the ability to compete at the highest level in Europe.
While Celtic also boasts an impressive lineup, Ferguson contends that Rangers’ players are more skilled and technically gifted. This claim stems from the consistent performances of stars such as James Tavernier, Alfredo Morelos, and Ryan Kent, who have contributed significantly to the team’s success, both domestically and in European competitions. Players like these have showcased a level of versatility and determination that Ferguson believes puts Rangers ahead of Celtic in terms of player quality.
2. Tactical Approach: Rangers’ Tactical Mastery
Another reason Ferguson claims Rangers are superior is the tactical flexibility and discipline they exhibit. Over the past few seasons, Rangers have demonstrated an ability to play various styles of football, from counter-attacking to possession-based play, allowing them to adapt to different challenges. This tactical adaptability, Ferguson argues, gives Rangers an edge over Celtic, who have often relied on a more predictable approach under their manager.
Rangers have had success in European competitions by playing a disciplined and organized style, which contrasts with Celtic’s recent struggles on the continental stage. Ferguson believes that Rangers’ ability to consistently compete and perform at a high level in Europe is a testament to their superior footballing approach, one that allows them to get the best out of their players and tactics.
3. Club Culture and Ambition
Ferguson also touched on the importance of club culture and ambition. Rangers, in his view, have a history of success and a mentality that pushes the club to achieve greatness. Although Celtic has enjoyed a period of dominance in Scotland, Ferguson argues that Rangers’ mentality, which is focused on winning and continually striving for improvement, is unmatched.
Rangers’ comeback from financial turmoil to reclaim their place at the top of Scottish football has created a sense of resilience and unity among the squad and the supporters. For Ferguson, this reflects the true spirit of the club, one that has consistently shown the desire to be the best in Scotland and beyond. Celtic, by comparison, have had a period of relative dominance in recent years but have not faced the same adversity and challenges that Rangers have had to overcome.
4. Fans and Passion: A Heated Rivalry
Rangers and Celtic are two of the most passionate clubs in world football, with a rivalry that is the heartbeat of Scottish football. Ferguson acknowledges Celtic’s massive fanbase and the financial power it brings, but he maintains that Rangers fans offer something equally valuable: unwavering loyalty and a fierce commitment to the club. Rangers supporters have been through a rollercoaster journey with their team, and Ferguson argues that this creates a unique bond between the club and its fans, one that fuels the drive for success.
The “Old Firm” rivalry is one of the most fiercely contested in world football, and Ferguson’s perspective on the passion of Rangers’ supporters suggests that this fire and loyalty provide the team with an edge that Celtic may not be able to match. He believes that the Rangers faithful create an atmosphere of expectation and support that pushes the team to new heights, something that can’t always be replicated by Celtic, despite their larger fanbase.
5. The Historic Context: Rangers’ Legacy
Finally, Ferguson’s comments tie into the historic significance of Rangers Football Club. For decades, Rangers have been a dominant force in Scottish football, boasting numerous league titles, domestic cups, and European success. While Celtic’s recent achievements have been notable, Rangers’ legacy cannot be overlooked.
The history of Rangers, which includes triumphs in the European Cup Winners’ Cup and sustained success in Scottish football, provides the club with an aura that Ferguson believes Celtic cannot replicate, regardless of their recent successes. Rangers’ historical significance, their ability to rebuild and fight back after adversity, and their deep-rooted traditions make them, in Ferguson’s eyes, the superior club.
Conclusion: The Rivalry Continues
Barry Ferguson’s claim that Rangers is a better club than Celtic may spark intense debates among fans, but it highlights the ongoing rivalry between two of the most successful and storied clubs in Scottish football history. Both Rangers and Celtic have their unique strengths, and the debate over which club is better is likely to continue for years to come.
In the end, whether or not one club is superior to the other may be a matter of personal opinion. What is undeniable, however, is the passion, quality, and history that both clubs bring to Scottish football. The “Old Firm” rivalry will continue to captivate fans and provide the backdrop for many more thrilling encounters in the future.
