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Key Takeaways from Rohl's Rangers Introduction

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl spoke to the media for approximately half an hour during his introductory media appearance

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    2 hours ago

Exactly 135 days after the previous coach's initial media briefing as the club's manager, successor Danny Rohl faced the media at Ibrox for the initial occasion.

The magnitude of the task facing him is widely recognized, considering Martin's chaotic and disappointing 123-day tenure.

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

However, what exactly was revealed from the 36-year-old German's first public appearance as Rangers boss?

Rohl's Main Priority - Winning Comes First

A single message emerged clearly from Rohl's first appearance in front of the local press - he understands the need to win matches, and do so rapidly.

The previous manager Martin lasted only 17 matches and four months as manager, so the inquiry arose about how long the new man thinks is realistic to turn around the underperforming squad.

Although deftly sidestepping a direct answer that could bring later expectations, the coach's communication was quite clear.

"With hope very quickly," he said. "That is essential.
"In this business you have limited time. You can discuss future plans but it's understood it concerns immediate results and that period is about securing victories. That is my requirement.
"Another aspect remains clear - I require all players to understand our intended to perform. I come back to my primary message: victory comes first, entertaining football and it's together. If you follow this sequence, I'm convinced that I'll stay for years at the club."

Pressure is Normal

Danny Rohl press conference

The previous manager needed security protection to exit the Falkirk Stadium after his last match as manager.

We've witnessed how toxic environments can turn at sports teams when performances are poor. Demonstrations have almost become an expected aspect of game day atmosphere on both sides of Glasgow currently.

As the club's most youthful manager in history, the question was posed about which attributes the coach thinks he has that would allow him to handle, let alone excel, in among the most pressurized positions in UK soccer?

"I think pressure in football is normal," he stated. "You must learn that rapidly.
"I believe some people could reference my youth but I have been 16 years on this path. I experienced a great opportunity to work with the German club and be only an assistant manager, but I experienced what it means to manage a team and the demands involved.
"You begin getting results and then certain people will say you need to produce entertaining soccer. That becomes the stage but that's exactly what I want. I relish that challenge and I look forward about what's ahead."

Thelwell Explains Chermiti Signing & Appointing Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

The media pack had plenty of inquiries from the media directed at Thelwell.

Much discussion has focused on the hiring of his son as head of recruitment, with supporters skeptical about his qualifications for the role.

Nevertheless, he defended and clarified the choice to bring his son to Ibrox.

"It's always awkward to hear and optically I believe everyone understood when we took this step to appoint Robbie that he'd be seen in a particular way," Thelwell stated.
"The truth of the situation is that we want to bring the very best players here.
"My perspective on Robbie's career and background is he required no family help in soccer.
"He served at Aston Villa as a senior scout, he then moved to Norwich City as head of scouting and then was elevated to development role.
"Prior to our recruited him, two top division teams sought to acquire him. Our approach right at the start of proceedings was discuss with Patrick, the chairman and deputy chairman Paraag Marathe about this matter.
"I remained highly open and I think Robbie probably experienced a stricter procedure than any other employee by this football club.
"I'm certain is that he will work 25/8 to be successful for Rangers and I'm looking forward to him proving that he's going to be an excellent employee for Rangers."

Thelwell also defended the signing of striker Youssef Chermiti, who arrived at the club for an alleged initial fee of £8m, having failed to find the net in 24 appearances for Everton.

The sporting director who brought the Portugal youth international to Merseyside from Sporting Lisbon - again for large funds in a fifteen million pound deal.

He was asked if he stands by his expensive purchase, who is yet to register in seven outings for Rangers.

"Yes, completely," Thelwell responded. "I believe the striker represents who's got huge potential.
"I haven't questioned him whatsoever. Similarly, I think the manager will assist in get the best out of the player.
"It's very early days for the young player, he remains young talent and naturally with inexperienced players they occasionally require patience.
"But I'm certain throughout of his time at the club he'll demonstrate that he is highly capable player."

The CEO Acknowledges Fan Frustration and Hurt

Stewart was also facing scrutiny, given the vitriol that has been directed at him by some club fans.

There was even a banner in the Sandy Jardine stand during the recent tie with United inviting Stewart - and Thelwell - to depart before they were packed for them.

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

"I totally appreciate the frustration and anger that fans are feeling because results this season haven't been good enough and no one is happy with them," he stated.
"The pain and disappointment they feel is mirrored inside the boardroom.
"Recognize that there must exist an outlet for that dissatisfaction and as chief executive, that's me.
"I serve as focal point for such issues and my role as a
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Written by

Sarah Ramirez

A seasoned business consultant with over 15 years of experience in UK corporate strategy and digital transformation.

Central Pro UK

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