Just days after Rangers officially ushered in a new era under the ownership of Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises, change is already sweeping through the corridors of Ibrox – and it hasn’t taken long for the first major backroom departure to emerge.
According to reports in the Daily Record, Nils Koppen has stepped down from his role as technical director as part of a wider shake-up behind the scenes. Koppen’s exit is expected to be confirmed on Monday, coinciding with the official start of Kevin Thelwell’s tenure as Rangers’ new Sporting Director.
Koppen joined the club 18 months ago, originally appointed as Director of Football Recruitment before taking on the broader role of Technical Director in late 2024. His remit spanned scouting, data analysis, and long-term squad planning – areas that have come under increasing scrutiny from supporters during a period of mixed recruitment results.
🎯 Hits and Misses
Koppen’s time in Glasgow hasn’t been without its bright spots. The emergence of Jefte, Connor Barron, Mohamed Diomande, and Clinton Nsiala has given fans cautious optimism about the future they may have. While none are quite the finished article, they’ve shown enough promise to suggest value for money and longer-term upside.
But it’s clear that the jewel in Koppen’s Ibrox portfolio is Hamza Igamane. The young Moroccan forward has all the tools to become a standout player for Rangers if he continues his development – a rare shining light in what has otherwise been an inconsistent recruitment drive.
On the flip side, questions have persisted around several Koppen-era signings who have failed to make the desired impact. Robbin Proper, Rafael Fernandes, Nedim Bajrami, and Oscar Cortes have struggled for consistency, fitness, or simply a place in the side. It’s these deals – some of which were highly anticipated at the time – that have led many fans to question whether the recruitment model was ever cohesive under his leadership.
⚙️ A New Direction
Koppen’s exit is likely the first of several changes to come as the new ownership look to modernise Rangers’ football operations. With Kevin Thelwell now in post and tasked with building a structure fit for sustained success, all eyes will be on who joins him in the key positions – and how quickly he can establish a system that delivers better consistency on the pitch and smarter strategy off it.
The message is clear: this new Rangers regime isn’t here to play it safe. Backroom roles that were once ring-fenced are now under review, and the American-led board appear determined to instil a culture of accountability and long-term planning.
👤 Dan Purdy Joins the Revolution
In a sign that planning for the summer transfer window is already well underway, it’s also emerged that Dan Purdy – former Everton Head of Recruitment – will join Rangers to work alongside Thelwell in shaping the club’s next squad rebuild.
Purdy previously led scouting operations at Goodison Park and has also held key roles with Liverpool, Leeds United, and Sheffield United. His arrival marks another signal of intent from the new boardroom – bringing in experienced football operators to make sure Rangers hit the ground running this summer.
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