Skip to content
London Games Agency

Important Lessons from Rohl's Glasgow Rangers Media Unveiling

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl addressed journalists for nearly 30 minutes during his first press conference

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Nearly 135 days after Russell Martin's initial media briefing as the club's manager, successor the German coach met with the media at Rangers' stadium for the initial occasion.

The magnitude of the task facing him is widely recognized, considering Martin's turbulent and unsuccessful four-month spell.

The ex- Wednesday manager was joined by chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the frequently questioned pair of football director Thelwell and CEO Patrick Stewart.

But what exactly did we learn from the young coach's first public appearance as the club's manager?

The Manager's Primary Focus - Winning is Everything

A single message came through clearly from the new coach's initial presentation before the local press - he understands the need to secure victories, and achieve this quickly.

The previous manager Martin lasted only 17 matches and 123 days as manager, so the question arose about what timeframe Rohl thinks is realistic to transform the underperforming squad.

While skillfully avoiding a direct answer that might create future pressure, the coach's communication was quite clear.

"With hope very quickly," he said. "That is crucial.
"In football you have not much opportunity. One can talk about long-term vision but we know it's about immediate results and that period is about winning games. This is what I demand.
"Another aspect is also clear - I require every squad member to understand how we want to perform. I return to my primary message: it's winning, entertaining football and unity. By following this sequence, I'm convinced that I will remain for years at the club."

Pressure is Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

Martin required security protection to leave the Falkirk Stadium after his last game in charge.

We've witnessed how toxic situations can turn at sports teams when performances decline. Demonstrations have almost become a regular part of game day atmosphere on each part of Glasgow these days.

As the club's most youthful ever head coach, the inquiry was posed about what qualities Rohl believes he has that would allow him to handle, let alone excel, in among the highest-pressure roles in UK soccer?

"I think pressure in this business are standard," he stated. "You must learn that rapidly.
"I think some people could reference my age but I'm a decade and a half in this career. I had a great chance to be at Bayern Munich and be only an assistant manager, but I felt what it means to manage a team and the demands you face.
"When you start getting results and then some critics will say you need to produce entertaining football. That's the next phase but precisely what I want. I enjoy that challenge and I'm excited for what's ahead."

The Sporting Director Explains Striker Acquisition & Appointing Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

The media pack had numerous inquiries from journalists directed at Thelwell.

Much discussion has concerned the hiring of his son as recruitment chief, with fans unconvinced about his credentials for the role.

Nevertheless, he defended and explained the choice to recruit Thelwell Jnr to Ibrox.

"It remains uncomfortable to listen and in appearance I think everyone understood when we made this decision to hire Robbie that he would be seen negatively," Thelwell stated.
"The truth of the situation is that we aim to attract the very best talent here.
"My perspective on Robbie's career and situation is he didn't need my assistance in soccer.
"He served at Aston Villa as a senior scout, after which he joined Norwich as scouting chief and then was elevated to development role.
"Prior to our hiring him, multiple Premier League clubs sought to acquire him. What we did right at the start of proceedings was consult with the CEO, Andrew and deputy chairman Paraag Marathe about this situation.
"I remained extremely transparent and I think Robbie probably experienced a stricter procedure than anybody else who's employed by the team.
"What I do know is that he will work constantly to be successful for this football club and I'm looking forward to him demonstrating that he's going to be an excellent staff member for Rangers."

Thelwell also supported the signing of striker Chermiti, who arrived at the club for a reported initial fee of eight million pounds, after failing to score in 24 games for his previous club.

It was Thelwell who transferred the Portugal young international to Liverpool from Sporting - once more for large funds in a £15m deal.

The question came if he supports his expensive purchase, who is yet to register in seven matches for Rangers.

"Absolutely, very much so," Thelwell answered. "I believe Youssef Chermiti is a player who's possesses huge potential.
"I haven't doubted him in any way. Similarly, I believe Danny will assist in maximize the potential out of the player.
"It's very early days for the young player, he remains promising prospect and of course with inexperienced players they occasionally take time.
"But I'm certain throughout of his time here he'll demonstrate that he's a very, very good player."

Stewart Understands Fan Disappointment and Anger

Stewart was also in the media scrutiny, given the vitriol that has been directed his way by some of the club's own supporters.

There was even a sign in the stadium during the recent draw with Dundee United inviting Stewart - and Thelwell - to pack his bags before they were packed for him.

Like his football director, the CEO did not avoid the topic.

"I totally appreciate the frustration and hurt that fans are experiencing because results recently haven't been expectations and no one is happy with those," he stated.
"The hurt and disappointment fans experience is mirrored within the boardroom.
"Also understand that there must exist a channel for that dissatisfaction and as chief executive, that's me.
"I serve as focal point for those and my role as a
RR
About the author

Ryan Ramos

Marcus Whitfield is a veteran game designer and creative director with over 15 years of experience in the interactive entertainment industry.

London Games Agency

Type to search articles.