Skip to content
Sunday, October 11, 2026
StreamOpen UK

Important Lessons from Rohl's Rangers Press Conference

Danny Rohl media conference

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

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Nearly four and a half months after Russell Martin's first press conference as Rangers manager, successor the German coach met with the media at Rangers' stadium for the first time.

The scale of the challenge facing him is well known, considering his predecessor's turbulent and disappointing 123-day spell.

The ex- Sheffield Wednesday manager was accompanied by chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the much-criticized duo of football director Thelwell and chief executive Patrick Stewart.

But what exactly was revealed from the young coach's first public appearance as the club's manager?

Rohl's Primary Focus - Winning is Everything

A single message came through loud and clear from the new coach's first appearance in front of the local press - he understands the need to win matches, and achieve this rapidly.

The previous manager Martin lasted only 17 matches and four months in charge, so the question emerged about what timeframe the new man believes is reasonable to turn around the underperforming team.

Although deftly avoiding a specific response that might create future pressure, the coach's communication was quite clear.

"With hope as soon as possible," he said. "This is crucial.
"In this business you have not much time. One can talk about future plans but it's understood it's about the short-term and that period is about winning games. That is what I demand.
"Another aspect is also obvious - I need every squad member to understand how we want to play. I return to my primary message: victory comes first, it's attractive and it's together. By following this sequence, I believe that I will remain for years here."

Pressure is Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

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

We've seen how toxic environments can become at football clubs when results decline. Demonstrations have nearly become an expected aspect of the matchday atmosphere on both sides of Glasgow currently.

As Rangers' youngest ever head coach, the question asked about which attributes Rohl believes he possesses that would allow him to cope, let alone excel, in among the most pressurized roles in UK soccer?

"I think pressure in this business is normal," he stated. "One needs to understand that rapidly.
"I believe certain individuals could reference my age but I'm 16 years in this career. I had an excellent chance to work with the German club and serve as just the assistant manager, but I felt the reality to be a head coach and the pressure involved.
"When you start winning games and then some critics will say you need to play attractive soccer. That becomes the stage but that's exactly what I want. I enjoy that challenge and I'm excited about what's ahead."

The Sporting Director Explains Chermiti Signing & Hiring His Son

Kevin Thelwell media conference

There were plenty of inquiries from the media directed at Thelwell.

Significant attention has concerned the appointment of his son as head of recruitment, with fans unconvinced about his credentials for the position.

Nevertheless, he defended and clarified the decision to recruit Thelwell Jnr to Ibrox.

"It remains awkward to listen and in appearance I think everyone understood when we made this step to appoint him that he'd be seen in a particular way," Thelwell said.
"The truth of the situation is that we want to bring the very best players here.
"My view on his professional path and background is he didn't need my assistance in soccer.
"He's worked at Villa as head scout, after which he moved to Norwich as scouting chief and then was elevated to development role.
"Prior to our hiring him, two Premier League teams sought to sign him. What we did from the start of proceedings was discuss with the CEO, the chairman and vice-chairman Marathe about this matter.
"I remained highly transparent and I believe Robbie probably experienced a more rigorous process than any other who's employed by this football club.
"I'm certain is that he will work 25/8 to achieve success for Rangers and I anticipate to him demonstrating that he'll become a valuable employee for Rangers."

Thelwell also supported the acquisition of forward Chermiti, who joined Rangers for a reported initial fee of £8m, after failing to find the net in 24 games for Everton.

It was Thelwell who transferred the Portugal young international to Liverpool from Sporting - once more for large funds in a fifteen million pound transfer.

The question came if he stands by his multi-million pound purchase, who hasn't yet score in seven matches for the club.

"Yes, completely," Thelwell responded. "I think Youssef Chermiti is a player who's got great ability.
"I've never doubted him whatsoever. Again, I believe Danny will assist in maximize the potential out of the player.
"These are initial stages for him, he remains young talent and of course with young talents they occasionally require patience.
"However, I'm convinced throughout of his time at the club he's going to prove that he is highly capable footballer."

Stewart Understands Supporters' Disappointment and Anger

The chief executive was facing scrutiny, considering the vitriol that has been aimed 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 him - and the sporting director - to pack his bags before they were packed for him.

Like his sporting director, Stewart didn't avoid the issue.

"I completely understand the frustration and hurt that fans are experiencing because performances recently haven't been good enough and nobody's satisfied with those," he stated.
"The pain and frustration fans experience is matched within the leadership.
"Also understand that there must exist an outlet for those frustrations and in my role, I'm responsible.
"I serve as lightning rod for those and my responsibility as a
About the author

Maria Thompson

A tech journalist specializing in streaming services and digital media trends, with over a decade of experience in the UK industry.

StreamOpen UK

Type to search articles.