Qudus SalihuIn the aftermath of Rangers’ hard-fought 2-1 victory over St Mirren on December 30, 2025, a new name has surged to the forefront of the Ibrox conversation. While the usual suspects often dominate the headlines, it was the “unthinkable” and often underrated display of Emmanuel Fernandez that has left the blue half of Glasgow in awe, with many claiming the performance has “changed his life” at the club.
Stepping into the heart of the defense during a period of heavy rotation by Danny Röhl, Fernandez provided a display that was as outrageous as it was unexpected. Not only did he anchor a backline that withstood a late St Mirren onslaught, but he also proved to be the match-winner at the other end. In the 52nd minute, Fernandez ghosted into the box to finish a clever Youssef Chermiti assist, a goal that ultimately secured three points and moved Rangers within striking distance of the top of the table.
The “murmurs” regarding Fernandez have shifted from skepticism to genuine excitement. Signed as a developmental prospect and often overlooked in favor of more established names like John Souttar, the defender’s composure on the ball and aerial dominance against St Mirren suggested a player who has finally “arrived.” Even a controversial VAR-awarded penalty against him for handball couldn’t dampen his stock, as fans rallied behind him, citing the decision as harsh and praising his resilience to keep fighting until the final whistle.
Danny Röhl was quick to acknowledge the transformation in his post-match comments, noting that Fernandez has been “waiting for his moment” and has now made himself “un-droppable.” The manager’s faith in the young defender was repaid tenfold, and the Ibrox crowd—traditionally a tough audience for unproven talent—serenaded him off the pitch.
With the January transfer window looming, the narrative around the squad has shifted. Rangers may have been looking for defensive reinforcements, but Fernandez’s masterclass suggests the solution might have been right under their noses. For a player once considered a squad filler, this one night at Ibrox has rewritten his trajectory, turning an underrated prospect into a potential cornerstone of the Röhl era.
Qudus Salihu
Rabiu Aminu
Mustapha Sheidu
