NafisaRangers have entered what many supporters hope will be a defining period for the club, with major decisions being made both on and off the pitch as preparations continue for the new campaign.
The Ibrox side are determined to close the gap on their rivals and mount a stronger challenge for silverware next season. With fresh leadership now in place and transfer plans already underway, there is a growing sense that significant changes are still to come before the transfer window closes.
Much of the focus in recent weeks has naturally centred on player recruitment, squad planning and the club’s long-term strategy. However, one aspect that may have gone slightly under the radar is how the power structure inside Rangers could be shifting once again.
The latest managerial appointment may have revealed far more than simply who will be standing in the technical area next season.
Derek McInnes was officially unveiled as Rangers boss on Wednesday, shortly after confirmation arrived regarding Danny Rohl’s departure.
It has been a whirlwind period at Ibrox, with plans for the summer transfer window taking a dramatic turn in recent weeks.
The Gers had already begun laying foundations for the 2026/27 season under Rohl, including securing Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland as part of what Andrew Cavenagh previously described as a “summer of change”.
The Rangers chairman’s prediction proved accurate, although few could have anticipated Rohl’s switch to RB Salzburg just a fortnight earlier.
After prising Hearts’ star striker away from Tynecastle, Rangers quickly turned their attention towards McInnes once it became increasingly apparent that Rohl was heading to Austria.
However, the arrival of McInnes on a three-year contract could have implications that stretch far beyond the dugout.
Derek McInnes being appointed “manager” could be hugely significant
One detail that immediately caught attention following McInnes’ appointment was Rangers’ decision to officially refer to him as the club’s new manager.
In recent years, figures such as Danny Rohl, Russell Martin and Philippe Clement were all appointed under the title of head coach.
That distinction often meant that other senior figures at the club — including former executives Patrick Stewart and Kevin Thelwell — retained greater influence over key football decisions than the head coaches themselves.
Speaking on the Daily Record’s Hotline Live programme, Keith Jackson explained why McInnes carrying the title of manager may be more important than many realise.
Jackson said: “I think it’s significant that after Martin, head coach, Rohl, head coach, Rangers have appointed a ‘manager’. I think the stressing of that word is really important, and I think Rangers fans should be delighted with that.
“It’s an admission that Rangers have made mistakes under Andrew Cavenagh, but they’ve learned their lessons along the way. It’s very significant.”
Reports suggest the former Hearts boss is thrilled to be back in Glasgow and eager to begin work ahead of what Rangers hope will be a genuine title challenge.
What this could mean for Rangers’ transfer business
While Rohl was involved in discussions alongside the 49ers ownership group and Stig Inge Bjornebye regarding transfers, his influence did not necessarily outweigh other voices within the football department.
The German could offer recommendations and provide his assessment, but ultimate authority often rested elsewhere.
Recruitment staff naturally valued his opinion, but McInnes appears set to operate under a different framework.
The new Rangers manager is expected to wield considerably greater influence behind the scenes, particularly when it comes to shaping the squad according to his own football philosophy.
That could mean the club’s transfer strategy becomes more closely aligned with the manager’s immediate requirements as well as his longer-term vision for the team.
Rather than simply contributing to discussions, McInnes is likely to have a much stronger voice when decisions are made regarding potential signings and departures.
Rangers will still follow a coordinated recruitment model, but the balance of power appears to have shifted.
As a result, it will be fascinating to see whether all of the club’s previously identified targets remain priorities now that McInnes is firmly in charge at Ibrox.
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