In a dramatic turn of events, Philippe Clement’s tenure as Rangers manager has come to an abrupt end following a series of disappointing performances. The final straw was a 2-0 home defeat to St Mirren on February 22, 2025, marking their first victory at Ibrox since 1991. This loss left Rangers trailing 13 points behind league leaders Celtic, prompting the club’s board to take decisive action. 
Clement’s departure was not without controversy. Reports suggest that he left a terse nine-word note in the dressing room, directed at his players: “You got what you wanted. I hope you’re happy.” This message hints at underlying tensions between the manager and the squad, suggesting a fractured relationship that may have contributed to the team’s underperformance.
During his 16-month stint, Clement experienced a mix of highs and lows. He secured the Scottish League Cup in December 2023 with a narrow 1-0 victory over Aberdeen, offering a glimpse of promise. However, this success was overshadowed by inconsistent league performances and a shocking Scottish Cup exit at the hands of Championship side Queen’s Park, which intensified scrutiny over his leadership. 
In the wake of Clement’s dismissal, Rangers have appointed former club captain Barry Ferguson as interim manager. Ferguson, who has previously managed Clyde, Kelty Hearts, and Alloa, expressed confidence in his ability to rejuvenate the team. He emphasized the importance of restoring player morale and implementing a cohesive strategy to navigate the remainder of the season successfully. 
The club is also undergoing significant administrative changes, with discussions of a potential takeover by a U.S.-led consortium. This development adds another layer of complexity to the current situation, as the new ownership could influence future managerial appointments and the overall direction of the club. 
As Rangers embark on this transitional phase, the focus will be on stabilizing on-field performances and addressing internal dynamics to foster a more unified and resilient squad. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the club’s trajectory for the remainder of the season and beyond.
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