A year ago, Rangers FC seemed to be on the rise, topping the Scottish Premiership table under the guidance of Philippe Clement. The manager, who had arrived from Belgium with a strong reputation, quickly made an impact by leading the team to a League Cup victory and an impressive run of 26 games with just one loss. However, the initial optimism has faded, and Clement’s departure marks another chapter in Rangers' ongoing struggles.

The Initial Promise

Clement’s arrival at Ibrox brought hope to a club that had been floundering. Goalkeeper Jack Butland described the pre-Clement era as "running down a cul-de-sac into a dead end." Clement’s early success suggested that Rangers had found their savior. However, the stability off the pitch was missing, and the club’s financial constraints limited his ability to build a competitive squad.

The Downfall

Despite his early promise, Clement’s tenure was plagued by inconsistency. The team struggled against lower-budget domestic opponents, failing to win in 10 different matches this season. Even in the Europa League, where Rangers secured notable results against Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United, the specter of crisis loomed large. The pressure mounted as Celtic pulled away in the league, and Rangers’ form deteriorated.

The Management Struggles

Clement’s inability to adapt tactically against defensive teams became increasingly apparent. The lack of depth and quality in the squad, combined with his own managerial shortcomings, led to a series of disappointing results. His defiant words could not mask the erosion of his authority as the team’s performance declined.

The Aftermath

With Clement’s departure, Rangers are once again searching for a new manager to steer the club out of turmoil. The dressing room remains divided, with too many players lacking the character and leadership needed to succeed. The new manager will face the daunting task of rebuilding a team that has been mentally fragile and inconsistent.

The Vicious Cycle

Rangers’ cycle of managerial changes, poor recruitment, and on-field struggles shows no signs of ending. The club’s financial situation and off-field instability compound the challenges, leaving fans frustrated and the future uncertain. As the search for a new manager begins, the question remains: can Rangers break free from this vicious cycle?