Qudus SalihuđČ Growing Murmurs: Is Kevin Thelwell’s Rangers Reign Nearing a Shock End?A palpable sense of unrest hangs over Ibrox, and amidst fan protests and poor results, a stunning rumour has surfaced: Rangers Sporting Director Kevin Thelwell is reportedly set for the sack in a move few predicted just months ago. While the club has recently appointed Danny Röhl as Head Coach, the focus is quickly shifting from the dugout to the boardroom.đ„ The Heat is OnThe pressure on Thelwell and CEO Patrick Stewart has intensified dramatically following a disastrous start to the 2025/26 season. Fan anger, initially directed at the now-departed manager Russell Martinâwho Thelwell staunchly backedâhas firmly encompassed the Sporting Director.Critics point to several “red card offences” in Thelwell’s tenure, including a chaotic summer transfer window. Expensive signings like Youssef Chermiti have yet to deliver, leading one podcast to slam the recruitment as “rawer than sushi.” Furthermore, the appointment of his son as Head of Recruitment and the perception of a ‘jobs for the boys’ culture have only fuelled supporter discontent.đĄïž Defiant Public StanceDespite the mounting calls for his dismissal and recent confrontations with furious supporters at European airports, Thelwell has publicly stated his determination to stay. “Rangers, to me, is something that’s worth fighting for,” he declared, acknowledging the criticism but insisting he and the club executives are committed to turning things around. Rangers chairman Andrew Cavanagh has also publicly backed his senior executives, stating he has faith in them despite admitting the appointment of Martin was a mistake.đȘ The Unforeseen ExitYet, whispers persist that a change is imminent. The alleged disagreements with former targets for the manager’s role, such as Steven Gerrard and Kevin Muscat, over the clubâs sporting structure have put Thelwellâs recruitment model under scrutiny. If the new management structure falters or results don’t rapidly improve under Röhl, the club’s hierarchy may decide that Thelwell has become an unviable figurehead. An abrupt dismissal, especially after his recent defiant statements, would be a shockwave, but the sheer intensity of the fan backlash suggests the unthinkable may be on the cards
Mustapha Sheidu
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