The Rangers board made a bold decision last month by parting ways with Belgian manager Philippe Clement after more than a year at Ibrox.
Rather than immediately searching for a long-term successor to the former Monaco and Club Brugge boss, the Light Blues appointed ex-player Barry Ferguson as interim coach. He has already made an impact, securing a thrilling 3-2 victory over Celtic in the Scottish Premiership.
Ferguson, a former central midfielder, brings a deep understanding of the club, having made 410 appearances for Rangers. His experience at Ibrox means he knows exactly what it takes to succeed at the club. During his playing days, he also shared the pitch with several standout talents, including versatile attacker Nacho Novo.
Nacho Novo’s Impact at Rangers
The Spanish forward, who played 131 matches alongside Ferguson, arrived at Rangers from Dundee in the summer of 2004 and spent six successful years at the club.
Novo was a key player in numerous title races, winning three Premiership titles, two League Cups, and an SFA Cup. His ability to shine in big games was evident, scoring six goals in 29 career appearances against Celtic.
Operating both as a winger and a centre-forward, Novo’s goal-scoring contributions varied across seasons, but he remained a dangerous attacking presence throughout his time at Ibrox. His knack for delivering in crucial moments cemented his status as a key player for the Scottish giants.
Now, Ferguson has the opportunity to develop his own version of Novo by giving more chances to Hamza Igamane.
Why Hamza Igamane Could Be Ferguson’s New Nacho Novo
Like Novo, Igamane is a versatile attacker capable of playing on the wing or as the main striker. Since joining Rangers last summer, the Moroccan international has made a strong impression, tallying 14 goals and three assists across all competitions. His Premiership record includes ten goals and one assist, a return reminiscent of Novo’s impact in front of goal.
However, Ferguson has yet to fully rely on the 22-year-old forward, as he has been used primarily as a substitute in recent matches. In fact, Igamane has only played more than 52 minutes once in his last four appearances.
Despite limited game time, he made a crucial impact in Rangers’ recent victory over Celtic, coming off the bench to score a stunning match-winner in the 88th minute. Football analyst Jacek Kulig previously labeled him a “jackpot transfer” for Celtic, highlighting the talent and potential he brings to the squad.
Given his goal-scoring ability and composure in high-pressure situations, Ferguson should now put more trust in the Moroccan forward. Rather than limiting his minutes, the interim boss must lean on Igamane to deliver when it matters most—just as Novo once did.
With 14 goals to his name this season, Igamane has already proven he can be a difference-maker. Now, it’s up to Ferguson to back him and give him the platform to become Rangers’ next attacking star.
