Next Rangers sporting director contender emerges as 49ers could poach candidate from top five Euro league
Rangers are looking to replace the recently departed Kevin Thelwell as sporting director
Rangers continue their search for a new sporting director following their decision to axe Kevin Thelwell. According to reports in Spain, the Glasgow giants are eyeing up a La Liga expert to take on the vacant position at Ibrox.
Rangers made the decision to sack Thelwell last week, along with former chief executive Patrick Stewart. The club confirmed the exit of the two figures in order to focus on searching for ‘people that align with the vision for the next chapter’.
A number of changes have been unfolded at Ibrox in recent weeks and months, including the appointment of new manager Danny Rohl. The German coach was brought in as the permanent replacement for Russell Martin, whose nightmare tenure set alarming new lows for the club.
Rangers make contact about potential new sporting director signing
Rangers are on the market for another key figure replacement at Ibrox. The club are looking to sign a new name to replace the departed Thelwell, and according to Italian journalist Matteo Moretto, the Light Blues have made contact with Real Betis about potentially signing their sporting director Manu Fajardo.
The information, relayed via Spanish outlet Radio Marca, claims that there is ‘growing interest’ being shown in Fajardo, who is now one of the most sought-after names beyond La Liga.
“The Betis sporting director is standing out in the market... and is starting to attract suitors,” Moretto said, following up by claiming Rangers have ‘enquired’ about potentially bringing Fajardo to the Scottish Premiership.
There is ‘real interest’ being shown in Fajardo from Rangers, who are looking to guide the team through this significant period of change.
Clubs in Italy are also eyeing up Fajardo but it looks like it’s going to take a lot from any club to convince him to leave Betis.
“Right now, we're here. We'll see what the future holds; I know the Betis sporting director is very happy there,” Moretto continued, claiming there is ‘complete harmony’ between the squad, club board and sporting director.
Danny Rohl gives hope to Barry Ferguson
Former interim manager Barry Ferguson has been left feeling convinced and confident by what he’s heard coming out of Rangers lately.
Ferguson believes Rohl will have ‘been pleased’ with the intensity of his players’ approach to games and the overall improvement of the team. The finer details have changed recent results for Rangers, which is where Ferguson wants to see his former side improve.
“Ultimately, that’s where games of football are won and lost,” Ferguson continued. “And it’s where Rangers really need to rediscover a ruthless streak if they want to start clocking up results on a more consistent basis.
“Danny may have hoped he had turned a corner after rattling off four straight league wins but four points dropped in back to back matches against Falkirk and United have just underlined how much work still needs to be done.
“That’s why I was very encouraged the other day when he talked about recruiting players who know what it means to wear a Rangers shirt. As a matter of fact, that was music to my ears.
“He’s spot on and it was something I said myself during my short time in charge last season. It’s not enough to be a talented football player when you’re representing that badge. I saw plenty of them come and go during my own time - guys with tons of ability who struggled with the demands that were placed on them in Glasgow.”