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Major Insights from Rohl's Glasgow Rangers Press Conference

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl spoke to journalists for nearly half an hour during his first media appearance

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Exactly 135 days after the previous coach's first press conference as Rangers manager, successor Danny Rohl faced the media at Ibrox for the initial occasion.

The magnitude of the task facing him is widely recognized, considering his predecessor's chaotic and disappointing 123-day tenure.

The former Sheffield Wednesday boss was accompanied by chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the much-criticized pair of sporting director Thelwell and chief executive Stewart.

But what precisely did we learn from the young German's maiden media outing as Rangers boss?

Rohl's Main Priority - Winning Comes First

One thing emerged loud and clear from Rohl's initial presentation before the Scottish media - he understands the necessity to secure victories, and do so quickly.

The previous manager Russell Martin managed just 17 matches and 123 days as manager, so the question emerged about what timeframe Rohl thinks is reasonable to turn around the struggling squad.

While skillfully sidestepping a specific response that could bring later expectations, the coach's message was very evident.

"Hopefully very quickly," he said. "That is crucial.
"In football you have limited opportunity. You can discuss long-term vision but it's understood it concerns the short-term and that period is about securing victories. That is what I demand.
"Another aspect remains obvious - I need every squad member to understand our intended to perform. I come back to my main theme: victory comes first, entertaining football and unity. By following this order, I believe that I will remain very long here."

Expectations are Normal

Danny Rohl press conference

Martin required security protection to leave the stadium after his last match as manager.

We've witnessed how hostile situations can turn at football clubs when results are poor. Demonstrations have nearly become an expected part of the matchday atmosphere on both sides of the city these days.

As Rangers' youngest ever head coach, the inquiry was posed about what qualities the coach thinks he has that would allow him to cope, let alone thrive, in one of the highest-pressure roles in UK soccer?

"In my opinion pressure in football are standard," he stated. "One needs to understand that rapidly.
"I believe certain individuals could reference my youth but I'm 16 years in this career. I had an excellent opportunity to work with Bayern Munich and serve as just the assistant coach, but I felt the reality to manage a team and the demands involved.
"When you start getting results and then some critics claim you need to play attractive football. That's the next phase but precisely what I want. I enjoy those expectations and I'm excited about the future."

Thelwell Defends Striker Acquisition & Appointing His Son

Kevin Thelwell media conference

There were plenty of inquiries from the media directed at Thelwell.

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

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

"It's always awkward to hear and in appearance I think everyone understood when we made this step to appoint him that he'd be seen in a particular way," Thelwell said.
"The truth of circumstances is that we aim to bring the top players here.
"My perspective on Robbie's career and background is he required no my assistance in soccer.
"He's worked at Aston Villa as head scout, after which he moved to Norwich City as scouting chief and then got promoted to development role.
"Prior to our recruited him, multiple Premier League teams sought to acquire him. Our approach from the start of proceedings was consult with Patrick, the chairman and vice-chairman Paraag Marathe about this situation.
"I remained extremely open and I believe he likely underwent a stricter process than any other employee by this football club.
"I'm certain is that he will work 25/8 to achieve success for this football club and I anticipate seeing him proving that he's going to be a valuable employee for Rangers."

Additionally, Thelwell supported the acquisition of forward Youssef Chermiti, who arrived at the club for an alleged initial fee of £8m, after failing to score in 24 games for Everton.

The sporting director who transferred the Portuguese young international to Merseyside from Sporting Lisbon - again for significant money in a £15m deal.

The question came if he stands by his expensive signing, who is yet to score in seven outings for the club.

"Absolutely, very much so," Thelwell responded. "I think the striker is a player who's possesses great ability.
"I've never doubted him whatsoever. Similarly, I believe the manager will assist in maximize the potential out of the player.
"It's very initial stages for the young player, he's a young talent and of course with inexperienced players they occasionally require patience.
"However, I'm convinced over the course of his career at the club he'll demonstrate that he's a highly capable player."

The CEO Acknowledges Fan Frustration and Anger

Stewart was also in the media scrutiny, given the vitriol that has been aimed at him by some of the club's fans.

There was even a banner in the stadium during the recent draw with Dundee United inviting Stewart - and Thelwell - to pack his bags before being removed for him.

Like his sporting director, the CEO did not evade the issue.

"I completely understand the disappointment and anger that the supporters are feeling because performances this season haven't been good enough and no one is happy with those," he said.
"The pain and disappointment fans experience is matched within the boardroom.
"Recognize that there must exist a channel for that dissatisfaction and in my role, that's me.
"I serve as focal point for those and my role as a
KL
About the author

Kenneth Long

A seasoned luxury goods expert and e-commerce strategist with over a decade of experience in curating high-end products and market trends.

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