Godwin ObajeBarry Ferguson Backs Kevin Muscat’s Prospects as Rangers Head Coach
As Rangers edge closer to appointing Kevin Muscat as their new head coach, former Ibrox captain and interim manager Barry Ferguson has offered a robust endorsement of the Australian’s credentials, describing him as a “natural-born winner” who inherently understands what it takes to succeed at the club.
Muscat, a figure linked to the managerial vacancy at Rangers following the departure of the previous head coach, has impressed onlookers during his coaching career abroad, notably in Asia. The Ibrox board reportedly hope to conclude negotiations imminently, with Muscat expected to finish the current season in charge of Chinese Super League side Shanghai Port before making the move back to Scotland.
A Proven Winner with the Right Mentality
Ferguson, who captained Rangers with distinction and briefly managed the first team on an interim basis, is confident that Muscat embodies the qualities necessary to thrive at Ibrox.
“I got to know Kevin quite well when he played for Rangers because we travelled into training together every day,” Ferguson said. “He’s a natural-born winner. He doesn’t need to learn what makes Rangers tick – he just gets it. And he’ll surround himself with people who feel the same way.”
Muscat’s understanding of Rangers’ unique culture and expectations is a key factor in his appeal to supporters and board alike. The club demands high standards not just in performance, but also in attitude and mentality — traits Muscat is believed to exemplify.
“He’s had success everywhere he’s been apart from a brief spell in Belgium which didn’t work out,” Ferguson added, referring to Muscat’s managerial stint in Europe before moving to Asia. “But he recovered from that setback to win leagues in Japan and China and that tells you about his personality and character.”
This resilience and ability to bounce back from challenges is seen as essential for any manager stepping into a club of Rangers’ stature, particularly as the team navigates a demanding fixture schedule and aims to reassert domestic dominance while competing on the European stage.
A Transitional Period at Rangers
While the deal for Muscat is being finalised, Rangers will continue under interim management. The club faces a series of significant matches in the coming weeks, including high-profile league clashes and European fixtures, during which Muscat will not yet be at the helm.
Among these fixtures are crucial Premiership encounters against traditional rivals and fellow title contenders, alongside important Europa League matches that will test the squad’s depth and resolve.
In the meantime, the under-19s head coach, Stevie Smith, has been entrusted with first-team responsibilities for the immediate future, including upcoming league matches.
Challenges Ahead
Muscat’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for Rangers. The Scottish Premiership title race remains fiercely competitive, and European ambitions demand tactical nous and man-management expertise. The squad will look to the new coach to instil consistency and resilience, qualities for which Muscat is highly regarded.
Moreover, the Australian’s experience abroad is seen as an asset, potentially bringing fresh ideas and a broadened tactical approach to the team. His success in the Asian leagues, where he guided sides to silverware, suggests a capacity to adapt and innovate—attributes that may prove invaluable at Ibrox.
A Manager Who ‘Just Gets It’
Ferguson’s endorsement highlights more than just Muscat’s trophy cabinet; it underscores his intrinsic alignment with Rangers’ ethos.
“He doesn’t need to learn what makes Rangers tick – he just gets it. And he’ll surround himself with people who feel the same way,” Ferguson said. This sentiment reflects a wider consensus among Rangers supporters that the next manager must not only deliver results but also embody the club’s identity and values.
Such alignment between manager and club culture is often overlooked in the rush for tactical innovation but remains a cornerstone of sustained success at clubs with deep historical roots like Rangers.
Looking Forward
If the deal is completed as anticipated, Kevin Muscat will inherit a squad brimming with talent but facing significant expectations. Rangers’ hierarchy will hope that his winning mentality and proven track record overseas can translate into success in Scottish football.
Muscat’s appointment will mark a new chapter in the club’s managerial history—one that supporters hope will restore stability and deliver silverware after a turbulent period.
With his appointment pending, Rangers fans will be watching closely as the club prepares for a crucial phase in the season. Muscat’s ability to hit the ground running and forge strong relationships with players, staff, and supporters will be essential as he seeks to make an immediate impact.
Barry Ferguson’s confident appraisal offers reassurance that Muscat has the character and drive to succeed at Ibrox, encapsulating the hope that the club’s next chapter will be defined by triumph and progress.
Godwin Obaje
