NafisaThe summer was always expected to be a period of major change for Rangers, but few supporters could have predicted just how quickly events would begin to unfold behind the scenes.
After a season that failed to deliver the success many at Ibrox had hoped for, attention immediately shifted toward rebuilding plans, transfer business and the long-term direction of the club.
While much of the discussion has centred around new signings and potential departures among the playing squad, developments in the dugout have suddenly become the biggest story of all.
Across Europe, clubs are continuing to reshape their coaching structures ahead of the new campaign, and Rangers have found themselves caught up in that managerial carousel at a crucial moment.
What initially appeared to be speculation has now developed into a full agreement, with one of the club’s most important figures preparing for a swift exit.
Danny Rohl set for Salzburg switch
Rangers manager Danny Rohl is now on the verge of being confirmed as the new head coach of Red Bull Salzburg, with an official announcement expected in the coming hours.
The Austrian outfit identified the German as their preferred candidate to become the club’s 18th head coach and quickly opened negotiations with Rangers.
Despite being under a long-term contract at Ibrox, Rohl has been keen on the move, and discussions between all parties have progressed rapidly over recent days.
Reports suggest Rangers have already accepted that the manager will be leaving and have moved forward with plans to appoint a replacement.
Compensation package agreed
According to Austrian publication Salzburger Nachrichten, Salzburg have reached a full agreement with Rangers over compensation.
The Austrian giants will pay approximately €2 million to secure the services of the 37-year-old coach.
While confirmation is expected on Sunday, the latest the announcement is likely to arrive is Monday.
Salzburg are eager to complete the process quickly, with players due to return for pre-season training within the next few days.
The club want Rohl in place from day one as preparations begin for the new campaign.
Familiar face within the Red Bull system
One factor that helped accelerate the deal is Rohl’s extensive history within the Red Bull football network.
Before moving into senior coaching, he worked as a match analyst at RB Leipzig and later became an assistant coach under Ralph Hasenhuttl during the Austrian’s successful spell in Germany.
His knowledge of the Red Bull model made him an attractive option for Salzburg, who believe he can help restore the club to the top of Austrian football after a disappointing third-place finish last season.
The appointment has also received strong backing from influential figures within the Red Bull structure.
Reports indicate that former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, now heavily involved with Red Bull’s football operations, was among those pushing for Rohl to land the role.
Rangers spell ending sooner than expected
If the move is finalised as anticipated, Rohl’s time at Rangers will end without silverware.
The German guided the club to a third-place finish in the Scottish Premiership and was unable to close the gap on their title rivals during his spell in Glasgow.
However, Salzburg remain convinced they are acquiring one of Europe’s brightest young coaches.
At just 37 years old, Rohl is viewed as a manager with significant long-term potential, and the Austrian side believe he is the ideal candidate to lead their next chapter.
Rangers already moving for replacement
With Rohl’s departure effectively settled, Rangers have wasted little time identifying a successor.
Former Rangers player and current Hearts manager Derek McInnes has emerged as the leading candidate to take charge at Ibrox.
The Gers are believed to be pushing hard to complete a deal, with McInnes now viewed as the overwhelming favourite for the position.
His arrival would also align with Rangers’ apparent desire to bring a stronger Scottish influence back into the football department.
The club have already completed the signing of Scotland international Lawrence Shankland from Hearts earlier this summer, and further additions could follow if McInnes takes the reins.
Not Rangers’ original choice
Interestingly, Rohl was not Rangers’ first choice when they initially searched for a manager following Russell Martin’s departure.
Former title-winning boss Steven Gerrard and ex-Melbourne Victory manager Kevin Muscat both turned down the opportunity before Rangers eventually turned to the German coach.
Now, less than a year later, another managerial change is about to take place.
And with Salzburg preparing to unveil their new head coach, Rangers supporters may soon be saying goodbye to Danny Rohl and welcoming the start of yet another new era at Ibrox.
Nafisa
