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Tuesday, October 13, 2026
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Important Lessons from Rohl's Rangers Introduction

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl spoke to journalists for nearly 30 minutes during his introductory press conference

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Nearly 135 days after Russell Martin's initial media briefing as the club's manager, successor the German coach faced the media at Rangers' stadium for the first time.

The magnitude of the challenge ahead of him is well known, considering Martin's turbulent and disappointing four-month tenure.

The ex- Wednesday manager was accompanied by club chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the much-criticized duo of football director Thelwell and chief executive Stewart.

But what exactly did we learn from the 36-year-old German's maiden media outing as the club's manager?

Rohl's Main Priority - Victory Comes First

A single message came through clearly from Rohl's first appearance in front of the local press - he understands the necessity to win matches, and do so rapidly.

The previous manager Russell Martin managed just 17 games and 123 days in charge, so the question arose about what timeframe Rohl thinks is reasonable to transform the struggling squad.

While skillfully avoiding a specific response that might create future pressure, Rohl's communication was quite clear.

"Hopefully as soon as possible," he stated. "That is essential.
"In football you have limited time. One can talk about future plans but we know it concerns the short-term and the short-term involves winning games. That is my requirement.
"Another aspect is also obvious - I need all players to comprehend our intended to play. I come back to my primary theme: it's winning, it's attractive and it's together. If you follow this order, I'm convinced that I will remain for years at the club."

Expectations are Normal

Danny Rohl press conference

Martin required security protection to exit the stadium after his final game in charge.

We've witnessed how toxic environments can become at sports teams when results decline. Protests have almost become a regular aspect of the matchday atmosphere on both sides of the city these days.

As the club's most youthful manager in history, the question was posed about what qualities the coach thinks he possesses that would enable him to cope, never mind excel, in one of the most pressurized positions in UK soccer?

"I think pressure in football are standard," he stated. "One needs to understand that rapidly.
"I think some people could reference my age but I'm a decade and a half on this path. I had a great opportunity to be at Bayern Munich and serve as only an assistant coach, but I felt the reality to be a head coach and the pressure involved.
"When you start getting results and then some critics claim you must produce entertaining soccer. That's the next phase but that's exactly my intention. I relish those expectations and I look forward for the future."

The Sporting Director Explains Striker Acquisition & Hiring His Son

Kevin Thelwell media conference

There were numerous questions from the media directed at Thelwell.

Significant attention has concerned the appointment of his son as head of recruitment, with fans unconvinced about his credentials for the position.

Nevertheless, he defended and explained the choice to recruit his son to Ibrox.

"It's always uncomfortable to hear and optically I believe we all agreed when we took this decision to appoint him that he'd be viewed in a particular way," Thelwell said.
"The truth of circumstances is that we want to attract the very best talent here.
"My view on Robbie's career and background is he didn't need my assistance in soccer.
"He's worked at Villa as a senior scout, he then moved to Norwich City as scouting chief and then was elevated to development role.
"Before we hiring him, two top division teams sought to sign him. What we did right at the beginning of the process was consult with the CEO, the chairman and vice-chairman Paraag Marathe about this situation.
"I remained extremely open and I think Robbie probably underwent a stricter procedure than any other who's employed by the team.
"I'm certain is that he'll labor constantly to achieve success for Rangers and I anticipate seeing him proving that he's going to be an excellent staff member for the club."

Additionally, Thelwell supported the signing of striker Chermiti, who joined the club for a reported initial fee of £8m, having failed to find the net in 24 games for Everton.

The sporting director who transferred the Portugal youth international to Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon - again for significant money in a £15m deal.

The question came if he supports his multi-million pound purchase, who hasn't yet register in seven matches for the club.

"Absolutely, very much so," Thelwell answered. "I think the striker represents who's possesses great ability.
"I've never doubted him in any way. Similarly, I think the manager will help to get the best out of Youssef.
"These are initial stages for him, he remains promising prospect and naturally with inexperienced players they occasionally take time.
"However, I'm convinced over the course of his time here he'll demonstrate that he's a very, very good footballer."

Stewart Understands Supporters' Disappointment and Anger

Stewart was also in the media scrutiny, given the criticism that has been directed at him by some club fans.

Additionally, there was a banner in the Sandy Jardine stand during the recent tie with United inviting him - and Thelwell - to pack his bags before they were packed for them.

Like his sporting director, Stewart didn't evade the topic.

"I totally understand the disappointment and hurt that fans are experiencing because results recently haven't met expectations and nobody's happy with those," he said.
"The pain and disappointment fans experience is mirrored within the leadership.
"Recognize that there must exist an outlet for that dissatisfaction and as chief executive, I'm responsible.
"I'm a lightning rod for such issues and my role as a
The writer

Robert Olsen

A wilderness guide and conservationist with over a decade of experience exploring remote Canadian landscapes.

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