Rangers Part Ways with CEO Patrick Stewart and Sporting Director Kevin Thelwell
Rangers FC has announced significant adjustments within its leadership, parting ways with CEO Patrick Stewart and Sporting Director Kevin Thelwell. This shift comes in the wake of disappointing performances, landing the team eighth in the Scottish Premiership, 11 points off the lead.
Leadership Changes at Rangers FC
The decision to remove Stewart and Thelwell aligns with the club’s ongoing restructuring aimed at enhancing sporting performance.
Context of Changes
Rangers underperformed, failing to qualify for the Champions League and struggling domestically. However, under new head coach Danny Rohl, the team has improved its league position to fourth, decreasing the gap to league leaders, Heart of Midlothian, to nine points. Despite this, the club faced challenges in the Europa League, losing all four matches to date.
Statements from Management
Chairman Cavenagh highlighted that the transition seeks to prioritize the team’s performance on the pitch. He noted, “Responsible change is measured and steady.” He emphasized that while both Stewart and Thelwell are accomplished professionals, the club now requires a different approach than it did six months ago.
Background on Patrick Stewart and Kevin Thelwell
- Patrick Stewart, who took over as Rangers’ chairman in December, previously held a significant role at Manchester United for 18 years.
- Stewart also served five years with UEFA’s Champions League commercial agency.
- Kevin Thelwell joined Rangers after a successful tenure as Everton’s director of football and has experience with New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer.
Cavenagh praised both executives for their contributions during their time at Rangers. He stated that they would not dismiss their efforts lightly and acknowledged the challenging nature of such transitions.
Looking Ahead
The club is actively engaged in the hiring process for new leadership positions. Cavenagh has assured that the priority will be on finding suitable candidates who align with the club’s vision, rather than rushing the appointments. Rohl will continue to receive full support as the team navigates this transitional phase.
Rangers FC remains committed to leveraging these changes as an opportunity to establish a fresh leadership dynamic, with hopes that it will propel the club forward on both domestic and international fronts.
