Kevin Muscat is widely expected to become the next permanent manager of Rangers, with an announcement anticipated in the coming days. The former Ibrox right-back is set to replace Russell Martin, who was sacked two weeks ago following a poor draw away to Falkirk and departed as statistically the club’s worst ever permanent manager.
Muscat is currently head coach of Chinese Super League leaders Shanghai Port, who are in the final stretch of their season. Sources indicate that although terms are close to being finalised, he will not officially begin his role at Ibrox until either Shanghai Port mathematically secure the title or the Chinese campaign formally concludes.
Shanghai Port’s last scheduled fixture is on 22 November, away to mid-table Dalian Yingbo. In the worst-case scenario, Rangers may have to wait until after that date for Muscat to arrive. In the meantime, Neil McCann is expected to be installed in interim control before transitioning into his assistant role once Muscat arrives.
Until McCann joins the squad, Stevie Smith is expected to continue overseeing training and match preparation.
So, which matches might Muscat miss before officially stepping into the dugout?
Potential Matches Without Muscat
SK Brann (A) – UEFA Europa League – 23 October
Under-19s boss Stevie Smith is expected to take charge in Norway. Despite not holding a UEFA Pro Licence, Smith is permitted to manage for up to 12 weeks under UEFA caretaker exemptions. Rangers are still without a point in Europe after defeats to Genk and Sturm Graz under Martin, making this a must-win scenario to keep qualification hopes alive, even at this early stage.
Kilmarnock (H) – Scottish Premiership – 26 October
This is likely to be Neil McCann’s first match leading the team, assuming his return is confirmed. Rangers currently have just one league win from eight matches, sit only three points ahead of bottom club Livingston, and trail league leaders Hearts by 13 points. Improvement is essential to provide Muscat any platform to build on.
Hibernian (A) – Scottish Premiership – 29 October
After a strong 4-0 win over Livingston, Hibs have moved into third place. A defeat at Easter Road would deepen Rangers’ domestic concerns and risk widening the gap in the race for European qualification. Rangers’ only domestic win at Ibrox over Premiership opposition this season came against Hibs in the Premier Sports Cup quarter-final.
Celtic (N) – Premier Sports Cup Semi-Final, Hampden – 2 November
Arguably the biggest fixture Muscat is expected to miss. Rangers are unbeaten in their last four competitive meetings with Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic side, and with the league already slipping away and European progress uncertain, this semi-final could represent the club’s best chance of silverware. McCann would be tasked with maintaining that recent Old Firm momentum.
Roma (H) – Europa League – 6 November
A high-profile European night at Ibrox against Gian Piero Gasperini’s Italian giants could define Rangers’ hopes of staying in Europe beyond January. Depending on the result against Brann, Rangers may need a win to stay in the hunt for qualification or be at risk of being cut adrift outside the league phase qualification spots. A new manager bounce would be useful here, but Muscat is unlikely to be in place.
Dundee (A) – Premiership – 9 November
A tricky away trip that could prove damaging if Rangers still lack a clear tactical structure. Dundee have shown resilience this season despite being favourites for the drop under Steven Pressley and even managed a draw at Ibrox on matchday two.
Dropping further points here would make Muscat’s task even tougher on arrival, especially if pressure from fans has already intensified following earlier fixtures.
Livingston (H) – Premiership – 22 November
On the same day as Shanghai Port’s final league match, Rangers face Livingston, the only side they have beaten in the Premiership this season. This game may act as the club’s final outing before Muscat officially assumes control.
Likely First Match for Muscat
If the projected timeline holds, Muscat’s first game in charge of Rangers is expected to be the Europa League home fixture against Braga on 27 November at Ibrox, a match that could prove decisive in determining the club’s European future after January.