BREAKING NEWS; Celtic sent shockwaves on eve of new season as Rangers make unexpected announcement

Rangers boss Philippe Clement has signed a new contract at the club – and it feels like a move that should send shockwaves through rivals Celtic.

As confirmed by the club (Rangers.co.uk, 2 August), Clement has signed a new deal that will keep him in Glasgow until summer 2028. The Belgian sensation has only been at Ibrox since October and while the 2023/24 campaign didn’t exactly go to plan, it doesn’t seem to have fazed him too much.

Ironically, it comes after suggestions that he could be considering an exit – which is clearly no longer the case.

While this is great news for Rangers fans seeking stability, we think it’s a bit warning sign for champions Celtic.

Clement’s Rangers push

One of the big things that Rangers have been lacking since the departure of Steven Gerrard is unity. There’s been a lack of cohesion within the squad and behind the scenes but with Clement, it just feels like an aura of calm has spread over proceedings.

He’s made a handful of impressive signings including Robin Propper and Mohamed Diomande, he’s been firm and fair with outgoing players, and he’s got a proven track record. He won the League Cup earlier this year, earned two Manager of the Month awards and captured the Belgian Pro League three times for two different clubs.

Plus, in Nils Koppen, he’s introduced a Director of Football Recruitment who knows how to win. It feels like there’s a strong structure behind the scenes and after so many years of turmoil in that department, it makes for a welcome shift.

Clement holds himself well, speaks with elegance and knows how to manage a team full of big personalities. For Celtic, that has to be concerning as they attempt to make it four league titles in a row.