Philippe Clement Edging Closer to the Exit at Rangers
After surviving several close calls this season, Philippe Clement’s tenure at Rangers appears to be reaching its breaking point following a humiliating 1-0 Scottish Cup defeat to Queen’s Park at Ibrox.
CEO Patrick Stewart had previously supported Clement but emphasized the need for improved results. However, his latest remarks may have left him with little room to maneuver.
Rangers Poised to Dismiss Philippe Clement
Writing in the Scottish Daily Mail (print edition, 11 February, pg 70), Steven Donn reports that the Rangers board has the financial means to part ways with Clement.
“Rangers CEO Patrick Stewart previously stated that finances wouldn’t be the deciding factor in Clement’s future, so if the club decides enough is enough, the funds are available,” Donn wrote.
“The key question for the Ibrox board is whether they still see Clement as the right long-term option.”
According to the Scottish Sun, Rangers would need to pay £1.2 million to terminate his contract.
Patrick Stewart Expected to Make the Call
Having only arrived in December, Stewart now faces a major decision alongside chairman Fraser Thornton. With a crucial Scottish Premiership clash against Hearts looming, Clement’s presence in the dugout at Tynecastle on 16 February is uncertain.
Despite refusing to step down, the final decision now rests with the board. Rangers cannot afford to accept inconsistency and failure, especially in their pursuit of Celtic. A shock cup exit and dismal away form in the league have made Clement’s position untenable.
If he cannot recognize the glaring issues, then his judgment is in question. A loss to mid-table Scottish Championship opposition should serve as a wake-up call—if it doesn’t, then the situation has spiraled out of control.
While constant managerial changes are unsustainable without proper investment, Clement has run out of chances. Unless something drastic shifts fan sentiment, his departure seems inevitable. If the board lacks the funds to proceed with his dismissal, they must be transparent about it now.
