Former Rangers club doctor Ian McGuinness has announced his retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a distinguished 30-year career in the game.
McGuinness joined Rangers in 1999 and became a key figure behind the scenes during one of the club’s most competitive modern eras.
He particularly worked closely with managers Alex McLeish and Paul Le Guen throughout the mid-2000s, playing an important role in maintaining player fitness during domestic and European campaigns.
His time at Ibrox came to an end in January 2007 when Walter Smith returned for his second spell as Rangers manager, with Doctorr Paul Jackson brought in as his replacement.
Despite his departure, McGuinness contribution to the club during a demanding period of transition and success has remained highly respected.
Announcing his retirement on LinkedIn, McGuinness reflected on his journey in the game with gratitude and pride.
“30 years in the beautiful game,” he wrote.
“Thanks to everyone who’s helped me along the way. In life, we live for the moments we can’t put into words – and football has provided many of those. Made some fantastic friends along the way.”
He also referenced the philosophy that guided him throughout his career, including a quote from Michelangelo: “Ancora Imparo – I’m still learning.”
McGuinness revealed that some of his most enduring principles came from advice given by his father on his first day at Rangers.
“Make decisions. Find solutions,” he recalled.
He added that passion and humour were essential to longevity in football, describing them as “vital for success” and a way to “rescue you in times of trouble.”
“Here’s to another 30!” he concluded, alongside a blue heart emoji in tribute to Rangers.
His announcement was met with warm messages from former colleagues and players. Alex McLeish, under whom McGuinness worked at both Rangers and later in England, praised him highly.
“Congratulations to a fantastic top doctor, Ian McGuinness,” McLeish wrote.
“A pleasure to work with you, win a few trophies in our beloved football world, find solutions to keep the players fit to perform, and most of all a treasured friendship.”
Former Rangers midfielder Charlie Adam also offered his congratulations, simply replying: “Congratulations Doc.”
After leaving Ibrox, McGuinness continued his career in the English Premier League, working with Birmingham City and Aston Villa during McLeish’s time in charge.
His reputation as a trusted and experienced medical professional later led to an international role, becoming doctor for the Qatar national team in 2013.
Over three decades, McGuinness built a career spanning Scottish football, the Premier League, and international competition, earning respect for both his professionalism and personal approach. has announced his retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a distinguished 30-year career in the game.
McGuinness joined Rangers in 1999 and became a key figure behind the scenes during one of the club’s most competitive modern eras.
He particularly worked closely with managers Alex McLeish and Paul Le Guen throughout the mid-2000s, playing an important role in maintaining player fitness during domestic and European campaigns.
His time at Ibrox came to an end in January 2007 when Walter Smith returned for his second spell as Rangers manager, with Doctorr Paul Jackson brought in as his replacement.
Despite his departure, McGuinness contribution to the club during a demanding period of transition and success has remained highly respected.
Announcing his retirement on LinkedIn, McGuinness reflected on his journey in the game with gratitude and pride.
“30 years in the beautiful game,” he wrote.
“Thanks to everyone who’s helped me along the way. In life, we live for the moments we can’t put into words – and football has provided many of those. Made some fantastic friends along the way.”
He also referenced the philosophy that guided him throughout his career, including a quote from Michelangelo: “Ancora Imparo – I’m still learning.”
McGuinness revealed that some of his most enduring principles came from advice given by his father on his first day at Rangers.
“Make decisions. Find solutions,” he recalled.
He added that passion and humour were essential to longevity in football, describing them as “vital for success” and a way to “rescue you in times of trouble.”
“Here’s to another 30!” he concluded, alongside a blue heart emoji in tribute to Rangers.
His announcement was met with warm messages from former colleagues and players. Alex McLeish, under whom McGuinness worked at both Rangers and later in England, praised him highly.
“Congratulations to a fantastic top doctor, Ian McGuinness,” McLeish wrote.
“A pleasure to work with you, win a few trophies in our beloved football world, find solutions to keep the players fit to perform, and most of all a treasured friendship.”
Former Rangers midfielder Charlie Adam also offered his congratulations, simply replying: “Congratulations Doc.”
After leaving Ibrox, McGuinness continued his career in the English Premier League, working with Birmingham City and Aston Villa during McLeish’s time in charge.
His reputation as a trusted and experienced medical professional later led to an international role, becoming doctor for the Qatar national team in 2013.
Over three decades, McGuinness built a career spanning Scottish football, the Premier League, and international competition, earning respect for both his professionalism and personal approach.