Rangers Seek Redemption in High-Stakes Old Firm Derby to Shift Club's Narrative

In the lead-up to this weekend's highly anticipated Old Firm derby, Rangers manager Philippe Clement has voiced the importance of securing a victory over Celtic to shift what he describes as a “negative perception” surrounding the club. The match, set to take place at Celtic Park, is not just a battle for bragging rights; it stands as a crucial opportunity for Rangers to regain momentum following a turbulent start to the season. Rangers began their Premiership campaign on a disappointing note, drawing against Hearts in their opening match. Matters worsened for the club when they faced a premature elimination from Champions League qualifying after a disappointing exit against Dynamo Kyiv. Compounding these early setbacks is the ongoing delay with construction works at Ibrox, which has forced the team to play their initial fixtures at the neutral venue of Hampden. This logistical challenge has only served to amplify frustrations among the loyal Rangers fanbase. Clement, however, remains optimistic and acknowledges the significance of the derby not only in terms of points but also in terms of restoring confidence within the squad and its supporters. "For the fans, we know it's the game of the season," he said, emphasizing the rivalry's importance. He insisted that while the match carries significant weight, it’s crucial to remember that it is just one of 38 games in the league. “There's been a more negative perception around the club, with the stadium situation and the elimination from the Champions League—it’s easy to focus only on the bad,” Clement continued. “Yet, people overlook the positives: we won our last game 6-0, and it could have easily been more. It’s a result that hasn’t occurred in over four years for us, and it shows that there are positive elements to build on.” Clement also highlighted the youthful ambition within the squad, stating, “We are a young, exciting team who want to challenge.” He expressed confidence in their ability to compete, although he acknowledged that they are still a work in progress. As the players prepare to take to the pitch, the stakes have never been higher for both the team and the manager. A win against their fiercest rivals could act as a catalyst for change, acting as a turning point that reignites their season and helps to reshape the narrative surrounding Rangers Football Club. All eyes will be on Celtic Park this weekend as the clash promises to be not just a battle for points but a significant statement in the ongoing saga of Scottish football.