Danny Röhl Snaps at Reporter After Being Asked About Watching Celtic’s Last Match Ahead of Cup Tie

Danny Röhl Snaps at Reporter After Being Asked About Watching Celtic’s Last Match Ahead of Cup Tie

Rangers manager Danny Röhl found himself in the spotlight for reasons beyond football tactics on Friday, after snapping at a reporter during a pre-match press conference ahead of their highly anticipated cup clash with Celtic. The young German coach, known for his calm composure and analytical approach to the game, momentarily lost his cool when asked whether he had watched Celtic’s previous match.

As journalists gathered at the club’s training centre to discuss preparations for the upcoming derby showdown, the tone shifted when one reporter casually asked Röhl if he had tuned in to watch Celtic’s last outing. The question, seemingly harmless, appeared to strike a nerve. Röhl’s reaction was sharp and direct, as he responded, “I’m here to prepare my team, not to sit at home and watch Celtic on TV. My focus is Rangers—what we do, how we improve, and how we win.”

The abrupt response left the room stunned, with a brief silence following before the manager quickly shifted back to discussing his tactical plans and team selection. For a coach who has generally been praised for his professionalism and composed manner in media duties, the outburst was unexpected. However, it also highlighted the growing tension and pressure surrounding the upcoming cup tie—a match that could define Röhl’s early tenure at Ibrox.

Sources close to the club suggest that the question might have been poorly timed. Röhl has been working tirelessly to reshape Rangers’ style of play, emphasizing high pressing, quick transitions, and structured buildup. With the rivalry against Celtic intensifying both on and off the pitch, the implication that he might be taking cues from their recent performances may have felt like a slight on his independence as a manager.

In footballing terms, Röhl’s Rangers have shown steady progress under his guidance. His influence has been evident in the team’s improved fitness levels, tactical discipline, and collective confidence. Still, fans know that results against Celtic are often the ultimate measure of success for any Rangers boss. The German tactician is aware that victory in this cup fixture could win him immense credibility among supporters and silence early doubters questioning his experience at the highest level.

Later in the press conference, Röhl attempted to downplay the exchange, clarifying that he respects Celtic as a strong opponent but remains entirely focused on his own squad. “They are a good team, yes, but my job is to make sure Rangers play our football. That’s what matters,” he stated firmly.

Röhl’s fiery moment may have been uncharacteristic, but it also showed a glimpse of the competitive edge that has defined his coaching journey. As kickoff approaches, all eyes will be on how he channels that intensity into his team’s performance. For Rangers fans, the hope is that Röhl’s passion translates into a commanding display on the pitch—and perhaps the start of a new chapter in the club’s rivalry with Celtic.