Cammy Devlin opened up about the intense pressure he experienced during the 2026 World Cup as he prepared for his transfer to Rangers. The 28-year-old midfielder, known for his combative style, had endured a heart‑breaking end to his season with Hearts, missing out on the Scottish Premiership crown on the final matchday after a late defeat away to Celtic, who secured their fifth consecutive title. In the wake of that disappointment, Devlin joined the Australian national side for the World Cup, only to see his team bow out in the round of 32 after a penalty shoot‑out loss to Egypt.
Throughout his time with the Socceroos, rumours swirled about a possible reunion with former Hearts manager Derek McInnes and club captain Lawrence Shankland, both of whom had already taken up positions at Ibrox. The speculation grew louder after Hearts announced on July 10 that Devlin would be leaving the club on a free transfer. The very next day, on July 11, Devlin signed a two‑year contract with Rangers, with an option to extend for a third year.
Devlin made his debut in a Rangers shirt during the second half of a pre‑season friendly against French side St Étienne, a match that ended 2‑1 in favour of the home side. His performance earned praise from both the travelling Light Blues supporters and manager McInnes, who noted the midfielder’s energy and willingness to work hard. As the club prepared for its final warm‑up game against West Ham United on the following Sunday, Devlin reflected on the whirlwind of events that had taken place over the past few months.
"Honestly, it was a very stressful period," he admitted. "We finished the league season on a low note, and then we were thrown straight into the World Cup – one of the biggest moments in any player's career.
There was barely any time to process what had happened with Hearts before we were packing our bags for Qatar." He went on to describe the personal side of the experience, noting that his family had travelled across the Atlantic to support him at the tournament. "My mum, dad and my girlfriend were all there in America cheering me on. As a kid you never imagine you'll get the chance to represent your country on such a stage, so you try to soak up every minute," Devlin said. Despite the excitement, Devlin confessed that the timing of his contract situation added an extra layer of anxiety.
"I thought it would be a good idea to go into the World Cup as a free agent, but it turned out to be far too stressful. It was difficult to enjoy the tournament when you have your future hanging in the balance and the media constantly buzzing about your next move. My dad was calling me every day asking what was happening, and that just amplified the pressure." He highlighted the close relationship he has with McInnes, describing the manager as a mentor who helped him through a difficult season at Hearts. "He was fantastic for me at Hearts.
Everyone knows how we fought that season and how much he backed me as a player. When he took the job at Rangers, we kept in touch, but the conversation was limited at first because he had a lot on his plate." Devlin also acknowledged that McInnes' appointment at Rangers meant the club’s ambitions were far greater than a simple player‑to‑player deal.
"When Derek became the Rangers manager, the stakes were obviously higher. It wasn’t just about me any more; the whole club was looking to rebuild and challenge for titles.
I tried not to let that distract me from enjoying the World Cup, but when the opportunity to join Rangers presented itself, it felt too good to turn down." He summed up his feelings about the move with a mixture of relief and pride. "Rangers is a massive club with a huge fan base and a rich history. Signing for them was a dream, but the whole process was incredibly stressful.
I’m glad it’s all behind me now and I can focus on the next chapter." Rangers will kick off Derek McInnes' tenure with a Scottish Premiership match against Dundee United on July 31, broadcast live on Sky Sports. The Friday night encounter, scheduled for an 8 p.m. kickoff, forms part of a historic opening weekend in which all six Premiership fixtures will be shown live on the network for the first time. This game will also mark McInnes' first competitive appearance in charge after succeeding Danny Röhl as the club's manager.
Fans can view the complete Rangers schedule, including the date of the season's first Old Firm clash, by visiting the club's official website. In addition, a promotional Super 6 competition is running, offering participants a chance to win a share of a £250,000 prize pool at no cost.