In a recent analysis on the BBC Sport website, Kheredine Idessane highlighted the pivotal challenge ahead for Rangers manager Philippe Clement. Facing a string of 12 crucial games in the next 60 days, Clement is poised to navigate a series of encounters that could potentially “re-define” the season for his side.
The looming grudge match against Aberdeen on Sunday holds particular significance, coming at what Idessane describes as an “intriguing time.” This match carries added weight following the departure of Michael Beale after the previous encounter between the two teams.
Idessane underscores the importance of the upcoming clash, stating, “The latest re-run of this grudge match comes at an intriguing time. Things have settled down rather nicely for Philippe Clement. It won’t be lost on him, however, that he’s about to go up against the side which effectively did for his predecessor.”
Despite the Viaplay Cup final scheduled for 17 December, where Rangers are set to face the same opponents, Idessane contends that this weekend’s fixture is “just as important.” With an eight-point gap at the top of the table, Clement recognizes the significance of not slipping up in the league campaign if he aims to maintain pressure on Celtic in the race for the SPFL title.
“The gap at the top of the table is still eight points, and if Clement wants to keep any kind of pressure on his opposite number across the city, he knows he can’t afford to slip up when his league campaign resumes in Aberdeen,” warns Idessane. As the Rangers gear up for this critical stretch, the spotlight is firmly on Clement and the potential impact these upcoming matches could have on the trajectory of their season.