Patience and Progress: Why the Rangers Board Backs Philippe Clement’s Vision

Rangers manager Philippe Clement remains confident in the backing of the club’s board despite recent challenges, including a frustrating 2-2 draw against Motherwell.

Speaking after the match, Clement emphasized the long-term nature of his project and the progress he believes is being made, even in the face of short-term setbacks.

A Long-Term Vision

Clement acknowledged the difficulties Rangers face this season, particularly in light of defensive lapses that led to Motherwell’s two-goal lead by halftime. However, he emphasized the broader goals of the project [Daily Mail]:
“We knew before the season what the project was, and what a challenge it would be,” he said. While the last two games have highlighted issues, Clement pointed to previous strong performances against teams like Tottenham and Celtic as evidence of the squad’s potential.

He also noted a shift in the club’s trajectory, stating, “There are already teams interested in some players for the future, which we didn’t have the last two years. So, we’re taking steps.” For Clement, this growing interest reflects the progress Rangers are making in player development and overall team quality.

Board’s Continued Support

Clement reassured fans that the board remains fully supportive of his leadership. “They made a really clear statement about that already in the beginning of the season and now also with the (new) people involved,” he explained.

Addressing whether recent results had altered the board’s tone, Clement defended the long-term approach. He rejected the notion that a managerial change could resolve current issues, saying, “Do you think with another manager we would not have made mistakes today defensively? Those are things a board needs to decide.”

Challenges and Adjustments

Clement did not shy away from criticizing his team’s defensive performance, which he described as the root cause of their struggles against Motherwell. “We make our own downfall two games in a row,” he said, citing a lack of aggression and avoidable mistakes. Despite these frustrations, he praised his players for their determination to fight back in the second half, salvaging a draw.

Injuries and fatigue have also influenced Clement’s decisions. Explaining the seven changes to his starting lineup, he said, “I would really be a fool if I would have started with [tired players] and, after 60 minutes, they both would have been injured for one or two months.” For Clement, balancing short-term results with the long-term health of his squad remains a key priority.

The Path Forward

Clement’s immediate focus is on improving defensive organization and consistency, but his vision extends well beyond quick fixes. With the board’s support, he remains committed to building a sustainable, competitive team.

While the draw against Motherwell was disappointing, it’s clear the Rangers board values the bigger picture. Their faith in Clement reflects a commitment to steady progress, ensuring the club is well-positioned for future success.

In other news, Clement Unfazed by Future Amid Rangers’ Struggles and 14-Point Gap Behind Celtic