"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, setting a bold tone for his tenure at the Glasgow club. The 55‑year‑old manager arrived at Ibrox with a clear mission: to prevent another Scottish Premiership crown from slipping through the club's fingers and to restore the glory that last graced the trophy cabinet in 2021. The season opener looms against Dundee United on Friday night, a match that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
McInnes, who has already experienced the sting of a heart‑breaking final‑day showdown with Hearts, is eager to make an immediate impact and to prove that his side can start the campaign on a high note. In a pre‑match interview with Sky Sports News, the new manager stressed the importance of a strong start. "It's crucial that we get off to a good start," he said. "Rangers haven't enjoyed that kind of opening game for a few seasons, and we need to change that narrative right away." He went on to explain that building confidence, momentum, and belief among the players and supporters is essential.
"The fans are desperate to get behind something that feels positive," McInnes noted. "If we can generate confidence as the season progresses, I see no reason why we can't harbour the ambition to lift the title this year." The club has already undergone a significant summer overhaul.
Eight new faces have joined the squad, most notably the striking duo of Lawrence Shankland and Cammy Devlin, both arriving from Hearts. At the same time, long‑serving captain James Tavernier and experienced goalkeeper Jack Butland have departed, signalling a clear shift in the team's composition.
"Every club and every manager is still looking for key additions," McInnes observed. "From the perspective of the past four weeks, the players have responded brilliantly to our work. Everyone is focused on that first competitive match. I'm pleased the pre‑season friendlies are behind us – they serve their purpose, but the real test begins on Friday at Dundee United." He emphasized the need for physical readiness and tactical refinement.
"Physically, I think we are in a good place," he said. "As a squad, we still have a little work to do.
We have solid options in certain areas of the pitch, but we are a touch light at the back and have strong numbers in midfield. Our centre‑forward options are decent, yet there is room for improvement." McInnes' comments reveal a manager who is both realistic and optimistic. He acknowledges the defensive frailties that have plagued Rangers in recent campaigns, while also highlighting the depth and versatility available in midfield and attack. By addressing these nuances, he hopes to forge a balanced side capable of sustaining a title charge throughout the grueling Scottish Premiership schedule.
The new manager's philosophy centres on earning trust through performance. "We have to earn that trust with performances we can eke out," he explained. "If the team can build 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." Rangers' supporters, who have endured a series of near‑misses and disappointing finishes, appear eager for a fresh start. The club's recent transfer activity suggests a commitment to refreshing the squad while maintaining a core identity.
The arrival of Shankland, a proven goal‑scorer, and Devlin, a versatile forward, adds a new dimension to the attacking line‑up, potentially alleviating the goal‑scoring concerns that have lingered in recent years. Beyond the immediate tactical considerations, McInnes is also mindful of the broader cultural shift required at Ibrox.
"We need to build belief not just on the pitch but in the stands as well," he said. "The fans are the lifeblood of this club, and their passion can lift the players to higher levels.
When the supporters are behind us, it creates a powerful synergy that can turn tight games in our favour." Looking ahead, the manager outlined a phased approach to the season. The first phase involves establishing a solid defensive foundation, ensuring that the back line becomes more cohesive and less vulnerable to counter‑attacks. The second phase focuses on unlocking the attacking potential of the new signings, integrating them seamlessly with existing forwards to create a fluid, multi‑option offense.
The final phase will be about consistency – maintaining high standards week in, week out, and navigating the inevitable challenges posed by rivals such as Celtic, Aberdeen, and the ever‑dangerous Hearts. In summary, Derek McInnes arrives at Rangers with a clear vision: to restore confidence, to harness the enthusiasm of the fanbase, and to build a squad capable of challenging for the Scottish Premiership title. His early remarks convey a blend of pragmatism and ambition, acknowledging the work that remains while expressing confidence that the club can rise to the occasion. As the first match against Dundee United approaches, all eyes will be on Ibrox to see whether McInnes can translate his words into results and set Rangers on a path back to the summit of Scottish football.