🗣️ “I understand that we have our differences, but they could have done better to be frank…”
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The current Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has voiced his frustration following Rangers’ disappointing performance, taking particular aim at the tactical approach of Danny Röhl.
Speaking in a post-match interview, O’Neill did not hold back as he assessed what went wrong. While acknowledging that differences in football philosophy are normal, he made it clear that Rangers’ execution on the pitch fell below expectations.
> “I understand that we have our differences, but they could have done better to be frank,” O’Neill said.
“They (Rangers) could have done better.”
The comments come after a match in which Rangers struggled to maintain control, particularly in key phases of the game where tactical discipline and in-game adjustments were crucial. O’Neill pointed to what he described as a lack of cohesion in Röhl’s setup, suggesting that the team looked uncertain in both defensive organization and attacking transitions.
Throughout the game, Rangers showed flashes of quality but failed to sustain pressure or respond effectively when momentum shifted. According to O’Neill, this was where the coaching decisions became most questionable.
“Football at this level is about reacting quickly,” he added. “When things aren’t working, you need to see changes — whether it’s shape, personnel, or approach. I didn’t quite see enough of that.”
Despite the criticism, O’Neill stopped short of completely dismissing Röhl’s ideas, instead hinting that the issue may lie more in execution than intention. However, his remarks underline growing scrutiny around Rangers’ tactical direction, especially in high-stakes matches.
For Rangers, the focus now turns to regrouping and addressing the concerns raised. But with voices like O’Neill’s entering the conversation, pressure is building for clearer identity and stronger in-game management moving forward.
