The Rangers' season has been a rollercoaster, with a dramatic rise and fall in form. Danny Rohl, the manager, has faced intense scrutiny as the team's fortunes have taken a turn for the worse. The question on everyone's mind is: how big is Rohl's rebuild this summer?
Rohl inherited a challenging situation when he took over in October, with Rangers trailing Hearts by 13 points. However, his leadership and tactical adjustments seemed to pay off, as the team climbed back into the race for the title. By April, Rangers were on top of the league, with a slender goal difference advantage over Hearts. It seemed like a job well done, but the story took a twist.
In the following weeks, Rangers' form plummeted. They won just once in four games, losing three in a row in the top flight for the first time since 2000. This decline has raised concerns about the team's mental fortitude and ability to handle pressure. Rohl, known for his calm demeanor, acknowledged the team's shortcomings, stating, 'We have to learn in these key moments to be clinical and play without mistakes.'
Former Rangers midfielder Andy Halliday shared a similar sentiment, expressing doubts about Rohl's ability to manage the squad's mentality. He highlighted the team's recent performances, particularly their lack of response after setbacks, as a cause for concern. Halliday also mentioned the quality within the squad, suggesting that Rohl is struggling to extract the best from his players.
The financial investment in the squad, estimated at around £40 million, adds another layer of complexity. While some high-profile departures brought in significant revenue, the team's recent performances have raised questions about the balance between spending and performance. Rohl's response to queries about the squad's mentality may be a sign of his determination to focus on the technical aspects of the game.
Former Scotland international James McFadden and ex-Rangers player Kris Boyd have openly criticized the team's defending, which has conceded 13 goals in the last five games. McFadden emphasized the need for increased intensity and effort, while Boyd pointed out the team's tendency to drop their levels when leading. He suggested that the squad lacks the necessary mental toughness to consistently perform at a high level.
As the season nears its end, Rangers find themselves in a critical position. With nothing but pride left to play for, they face a challenging summer ahead. Rohl's future at the club is uncertain, and the summer transfer window will be a crucial period for rebuilding and reshaping the squad. The pressure is on, and the outcome will shape the club's trajectory for years to come.
