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Important Lessons from Rohl's Rangers Media Unveiling

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl spoke to journalists for around half an hour during his introductory media appearance

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Exactly 135 days following the previous coach's initial media briefing as Rangers head coach, successor the German coach met with the media at Ibrox for the initial occasion.

The magnitude of the challenge ahead of him is widely recognized, considering Martin's turbulent and unsuccessful 123-day spell.

The ex- Sheffield Wednesday boss was accompanied by club chairman the chairman, along with the frequently questioned duo of football director Thelwell and chief executive Patrick Stewart.

But what exactly was revealed from the 36-year-old German's first public appearance as the club's manager?

Rohl's Primary Focus - Victory is Everything

One thing emerged clearly from the new coach's first appearance in front of the local press - he understands the need to win matches, and do so quickly.

The previous manager Russell Martin managed just 17 games and 123 days in charge, so the question arose about how long Rohl believes is reasonable to transform the struggling squad.

While skillfully sidestepping a direct answer that might create future pressure, Rohl's communication was quite clear.

"With hope as soon as possible," he said. "This is crucial.
"In this business you have not much time. You can discuss future plans but we know it's about immediate results and the short-term involves winning games. This is what I demand.
"One thing is also obvious - I need every squad member to understand how we want to perform. I come back to my primary theme: victory comes first, entertaining football and it's together. If you follow this sequence, I believe that I'll stay for years at the club."

Pressure is Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

The previous manager needed security protection to leave the stadium after his final game in charge.

We've witnessed how toxic situations can turn at football clubs when results decline. Protests have nearly become an expected part of the matchday experience on both sides of Glasgow these days.

As the club's most youthful manager in history, the question asked about what qualities Rohl believes he possesses that would allow him to cope, let alone thrive, in among the most pressurized positions in British football?

"I think pressure in this business are standard," he commented. "One needs to understand that rapidly.
"I believe some people might mention my age but I have been a decade and a half on this path. I experienced an excellent opportunity to be at Bayern Munich and be only an assistant coach, but I experienced the reality to manage a team and the demands you face.
"When you start getting results and then some critics claim you need to play attractive football. That's the next phase but that's exactly my intention. I enjoy that challenge and I look forward for what's ahead."

The Sporting Director Explains Chermiti Signing & Appointing Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

There were plenty of questions from journalists directed at Thelwell.

Much discussion has focused on the hiring of his son as recruitment chief, with fans unconvinced about his qualifications for the position.

Nevertheless, he justified and explained the choice to bring Thelwell Jnr to Ibrox.

"It remains awkward to hear and in appearance I think everyone understood when we took this step to appoint him that he would be seen negatively," Thelwell said.
"The truth of the situation is that we want to bring the top players to this club.
"My perspective on Robbie's career and situation is he required no my assistance in soccer.
"He's worked at Aston Villa as a senior scout, he then moved to Norwich as head of scouting and then got promoted to player pathways manager.
"Prior to our hiring him, two Premier League clubs sought to sign him. Our approach from the start of the process was discuss with Patrick, the chairman and deputy chairman Paraag Marathe about this matter.
"I remained extremely open and I think Robbie probably experienced a more rigorous process than any other who's employed by the team.
"What I do know is that he will work constantly to achieve success for Rangers and I'm looking forward seeing him proving that he's going to be a valuable staff member for Rangers."

Thelwell also defended the acquisition of striker Youssef Chermiti, who arrived at Rangers for an alleged first payment of eight million pounds, having failed to find the net in 24 games for Everton.

It was Thelwell who transferred the Portuguese young international to Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon - again for large funds in a £15m deal.

He was asked if he supports his multi-million pound purchase, who is yet to score in seven matches for Rangers.

"Absolutely, completely," Thelwell answered. "I think the striker is a player who's possesses huge potential.
"I haven't questioned him in any way. Similarly, I believe Danny will help to get the best out of the player.
"These are early days for the young player, he remains young talent and naturally with young talents they sometimes require patience.
"However, I'm convinced over the course of his time at the club he's going to prove that he's a very, very good player."

Stewart Acknowledges Supporters' Frustration and Hurt

The chief executive was facing scrutiny, considering the criticism that has been aimed at him by some club fans.

Additionally, there was a sign in the Sandy Jardine stand during the last tie with Dundee United suggesting Stewart - and the sporting director - to pack his bags before they were packed for them.

Like his sporting director, the CEO did not evade the issue.

"I completely understand the frustration and anger that the supporters are experiencing because results this season haven't been expectations and no one is happy with those," he said.
"The hurt and disappointment fans experience is matched within the leadership.
"Also understand that there has to be an outlet for those frustrations and as chief executive, I'm responsible.
"I'm a lightning rod for those and my role as a
About the author

Tommy Buckley

Wildlife biologist specializing in sloth behavior and habitat conservation, with over a decade of field research in Central America.

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