"I don't see why we can't have the ambition to win a title this season," declared the newly appointed Rangers boss Derek McInnes, making clear his determination to prevent another Scottish Premiership crown from slipping through the club's fingers. The 55‑year‑old manager, who arrived at Ibrox after a disappointing final‑day showdown with Hearts, is confident that he can steer the Glasgow side back to the summit, a feat they have not achieved since the 2020‑21 campaign. Rangers' opening fixture of the new season is set for Friday night against Dundee United, a match that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. McInnes is eager to make an immediate impression and has stressed the importance of a strong start.
"It's crucial that we begin the season on the right foot," he told Sky Sports News ahead of his first competitive appearance in charge. "We haven't had that kind of opening performance for a few seasons at Rangers, and getting a positive result in the very first game will be vital for building momentum." The manager highlighted the need to cultivate confidence and belief within the squad, noting that the supporters are hungry for a project they can rally behind.
"The fans are desperate to get behind something that feels achievable," McInnes said. "If we can grow our confidence as the season progresses, I see no reason why we can't set our sights on the title." Rangers have undergone a significant summer overhaul.
So far, eight new faces have arrived at Ibrox, including the striking duo from Hearts, Lawrence Shankland and Cammy Devlin, who are expected to add firepower to the attack. Meanwhile, long‑serving captain James Tavernier and goalkeeper Jack Butland have departed, signalling a shift in the club's leadership and defensive structure. McInnes acknowledged that every club and manager is still searching for key signings to fine‑tune their squads.
"Every team is still looking for those final pieces," he observed. "But from the work we've done over the past four weeks, the players have responded brilliantly. The preseason friendlies served their purpose, and now the real test begins on Friday at Dundee United." He emphasized that the team must be as prepared as possible, both physically and tactically.
"Physically, I think we are in good shape," McInnes said. "As a collective unit, there is still a little work to be done.
We have solid options in certain areas of the pitch, but we are a bit light at the back defensively. Our central midfield numbers are strong, and we have good alternatives at centre‑forward, though that is an area where we can still improve." The manager's comments reflect a broader strategic vision for Rangers.
He wants to build a resilient defensive foundation while maintaining the attacking flair that the club is known for. By integrating the new signings and fostering a culture of belief, McInnes aims to create a side that can compete consistently at the highest level. In addition to the on‑field tactics, McInnes highlighted the importance of earning the trust of the Rangers faithful through performances that exceed expectations.
"We have to earn that trust with performances we can eke out," he said. "If the team can get confidence as we go along, then I don't see any reason why we can't have that ambition to go and win a title this season." The upcoming match against Dundee United will be a litmus test for the new manager's ideas.
A positive result could set the tone for the rest of the campaign, while a stumble might require quick adjustments. McInnes is aware of the pressure but remains optimistic. "We've got good options in certain areas of the pitch," he noted. "We're a wee bit light defensively and we've got good numbers centrally.
We've got good options at centre‑forward, but I do think that's an area we can improve on." Rangers supporters will be watching closely, hoping that McInnes's ambition translates into tangible success. The club's recent summer signings, combined with a clear tactical plan and a renewed sense of purpose, could be the ingredients needed to break the title drought that has lingered since 2021.
As the season kicks off, all eyes will be on Ibrox to see whether the new manager can deliver the ambition he so confidently espouses. For fans eager to follow every twist and turn, Sky Sports will provide live coverage of the Scottish Premiership, and the league can also be streamed via NOW. The journey to reclaiming the championship has officially begun, and Derek McInnes is determined to lead Rangers every step of the way.