Title: “Return of the Prodigal? Rangers’ Rumoured Recall of Philippe Clement Stirs the Pot at Ibrox”
Whispers echoing through Ibrox this evening suggest that Rangers FC may be preparing to reach back into their managerial past and rehire Philippe Clement — the very coach who dramatically led the club through highs and heartbreak before being dismissed in February 2025. If true, it would mark a dramatic turn in the Gers’ search for stability and success. But what does this possible reunion really mean, and is it likely to happen?
A Glimpse Back: Clement’s Time at Rangers
When Clement arrived in October 2023, Rangers were in need of direction. He brought some hope almost immediately — leading the club to a League Cup victory just two months later, in December of that year. His unbeaten runs of 14 and then 16 matches suggested that Rangers could once again challenge for Scotland’s top honours. (Sky Sports)
However, momentum didn’t last. Although Rangers under Clement achieved some fine results, inconsistency plagued them. Key losses — most notably a stinging exit from the Scottish Cup against second-tier Queen’s Park and a home defeat to St. Mirren — eroded confidence. By February 2025, with Rangers trailing Celtic by a significant margin in the Prem, the board made the decision: Clement was relieved of his duties. (The Guardian)
The Rumour Mill Spins Anew
Recent reports hint that Clement could be in line to return — possibly as manager once more. These whispers come amid discontent among fans, uneven performances, and pressure on the current management structure to deliver results that match the club’s heritage and expectations. Although Rangers’ board have not made any official statement about bringing Clement back, the idea has sparked sharp debate. Many long for Clement’s early successes; others remain wary of retracing steps that ended with frustration. (As of now there is no credible confirmation of a recall.)
Why a Recall Could Make Sense
- Familiarity & Proven Track Record: Clement already knows Ibrox, the players, the pressures. His early successes showed he could stabilise and bring silverware — something Rangers sorely crave.
- Fan Sentiment: Many supporters still speak fondly of Clement’s short but bright tenure. His early trophy and strong starts left memories that contrast sharply with some disappointing stretches that followed.
- Crisis Management: If Rangers believe they are in a slump beyond what a less proven manager can recover from, returning to someone with a known profile might be seen as lower risk.
The Considerable Risks
- Legacy of the Exit: Clement was dismissed because results dipped, inconsistencies emerged, and expectations weren’t being met. Returning him risks dredging up those past failures, and the questions of whether anything substantive has actually changed (squad, board support, finances).
- Pressure to Deliver — Immediately: Fans and critics alike are unlikely to offer patience a second time. The moment of truth for Clement before was in the big matches; now any recall means those moments are coming even sooner.
- Ambition vs. Restructuring Needs: Some problems at Rangers aren’t just down to coaching — recruitment, squad depth, injuries, consistency, boardroom stability all factor in. A manager alone can’t solve structural issues.
What Would Need to Be in Place
Should Rangers and Clement move forward with a recall, several conditions would likely need to be met for it to succeed:
- Clear backing from the board (financially and structurally) — budget, transfers, staff, patience.
- A well‐defined short‐term plan (for getting back into contention domestically & in Europe) plus a longer‐term project.
- Strong communication with the fans to manage expectations — avoid hype, deliver transparency.
- Possibly some changes in personnel — in coaching, recruitment or player leadership — to signal that things will not be a repeat of past mistakes.
Final Thoughts
The notion of Philippe Clement returning to Ibrox is compelling. For many Rangers fans, it could feel like reuniting with someone who once gave cause for hope. But whether it’s wise or possible depends heavily on whether Rangers have truly addressed the issues that led to his departure in the first place.
If you like, I could try dig up whether there’s any solid evidence — statements from the board, Clement himself or credible leaks — that this recall is on the cards. Do you want me to check?
- thescottishsun.co.uk
