Rangers are looking for their fourth manager since Steven Gerrard left to join Aston VIlla in 2021 after sacking Philippe Clement.
The Belgian arrived with a reputation of being able to deliver success domestically as well as the ability to compete against much bigger budgets on the European stage too.
Unfortunately, in just 12-months, Clement went from hero to zero as Rangers went from top of the Scottish Premiership and on course for a treble to trophyless and out of every domestic competition by Valentine’s Day.
Philippe Clement sends message to Rangers fans after Ibrox exit
Having kept his counsel over the last couple of weeks, Clement has now broken his silence on his departure, posting on X:
Dear Rangers,
It has taken me a few days to fully process and accept the end of my time at this exceptional club.
I leave with a heavy heart, frustrated and disappointed that I couldn’t consistently bring the team to the level we all expected. I understand your frustrations, and I share them.
We worked passionately, day and night, and while we faced challenges, I will never forget the many great moments we had together. Your unwavering support and the energy from the fans made those times truly special. In those moments, it felt like we were one big family.
For that reason, Rangers will always hold a special place in my heart.
Thank you,
Philippe
What went wrong for Philippe Clement?
Clement’s rise and fall as Rangers manager was remarkable.
His appointment looked like a masterstroke after just four months at the helm with progress in the Europa League secured, the league cup trophy back at Ibrox and Celtic caught and passed in the Scottish Premiership, despite inheriting a 7-point gap.
Injuries, a lack of investment and a stubbornness to change approach caught up with him though and Rangers ran out of steam.
Luck, and officiating, wasn’t on his side in the Scottish Cup final of last season or the league cup of this campaign, however, things only went from bad to worse this season as the wheels completely fell off.
Problems off the pitch and in the boardroom didn’t help, but his sacking was only a matter of time.
Clement did try his best, but Rangers is a unique club, and the persistent problems of physical and aggressive teams in the league was his undoing.
