Outgoing chief executive James Bisgrove didn’t half leave Rangers in the lurch this summer.
The former UEFA exec had worked his way up to the top executive role at Ibrox after revamping the Rangers commercial department.
But only one year into his tenure as the Ibrox CEO, Bisgrove’s head was turned by the lure of the Saudi Pro League.
The footballing project in the Middle East has convinced plenty before James Bisgrove, and will do so to plenty after, with the new Al-Qadsiah CEO fronting up an ambitious project on the Arabian peninsula.
And as Rangers’ hunt for a new CEO drags on, it looks like Bisgrove is already getting comfortable in Saudi.
James Bisgrove embraces project in Saudi Arabia
James Bisgrove was pictured on the official Al-Qadsiah X account promoting the 94th National Day in Saudi Arabia.
The day celebrated legendary Saudi King Abdulaziz ibn Saud renaming the Kingdom of Nejd and Hejaz as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932.
Internationally, the Middle Eastern nation has been taking huge steps to improve its reputation with the investment in football part of that wider approach.
James Bisgrove appears to be embracing the local culture too, as he donned a thawb and ghutra in celebration of the nation.
Bisgrove also gave a sizeable statement in which he heralded Saudi Arabia.
The statement reads:
“September 23rd marks a historic day in the lives of all Saudis, leaders and people alike, as it coincides with the 94th National Day, held under the theme ‘we dream, we achieve’.
“Years have passed, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has readily advanced towards leadership, prosperity, and excellence, guided by a visionary and insightful 2030 vision.
“The tangible results of this vision are becoming increasingly evident in various aspects of life, including education, health, economy, infrastructure, sports, urban development, and the sense of security and safety felt by all who live in this land.
“This momentous day narrates a brilliant history and the illustrious journey of a proud and noble nation.
“It stands as a major and inspiring milestone for generations to come, who take pride in their belonging to this nation, carrying the torches of development and progress under the wise leadership of King Salman bin Abudulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
“Being here among the generous and hospitable Saudi people, I am equally delighted and share their joy and pride in the remarkable achievements and development that have become the talk of the world.
“Congratulations to you on your beautiful and welcoming homeland, and congratulations to the homeland for having you. I am also honoured to be amongst you.”
The ex-Rangers CEO was then pictured enjoying the National Day celebrations in Al-Qadsiah’s new stadium.
Rangers’ hunt for new CEO goes on
Some Rangers fans might find the entire thing a little strange but it’s clear the project in Saudi Arabia is about more than just football.
It’s about a collective Saudi vision for the future, of which sport is just one major pillar, as the nation finances a huge development in all aspects of its society.
It’s an attractive project for some, as is the wealth on offer, and it’s clear James Bisgrove has quickly shifted his focus away from Rangers as he moves into Saudi football.
Rangers meanwhile remain in something of a haze following Bisgrove’s sudden and unexpected departure out east.
It looks like the ex-commercial guru quit Rangers just in time too, with Bisgrove set to shoulder the responsibility for delays to the development of the Copland Stand.
With the Gers only just returning to Ibrox over the weekend, the club finds itself without a CEO or a chairman following the resignation of John Bennett due to illness.
Ibrox shareholder John Gilligan has stepped into Bennett’s place with the recruitment of a CEO atop his list of priorities.
Gilligan explained that a move for leading target John Gillespie fell through at the final moments, with the club employing a recruitment agency to assess a number of new candidates.
