Ally McCoist has forcefully disregarded Jeff Stelling’s worries over 49ers Enterprises’ ownership of the Rangers.
The 49ers, who also own Leeds United, took a crucial step toward taking over at Ibrox on Monday, reaching an agreement in principle with the Rangers hierarchy to buy a 51% ownership in the club.
Rangers’ current administration, comprised of a diverse group of shareholders, has seen its popularity plunge this season, with unhappy fans protesting at both Ibrox and away stadiums.
With Leeds chairman Paraag Marathe leading the way in 49ers Enterprises’ dealings with the Bears, the takeover has sparked questions and worries about Rangers joining a multi-club structure.
Ally McCoist relishes the Leeds United example at Rangers.
Rangers and Leeds becoming two clubs under the same umbrella has obviously raised concerns about the future closeness of their connection, especially considering their different financial conditions.
With Leeds on track for the riches of the Premier League, Jeff Stelling questioned the probable financial imbalance at Ibrox, asking Ally McCoist on talkSPORT (4 March, 9:22am) if this was a concern.
Stelling responded by asking: “Are you concerned at all that their investment, or their financial support to bring new players into the club, might be weakened by the fact that they own Leeds United as well?”
| Club | Founded | Ground Capacity | Competitions | 2023/24 League finish | League position |
| Rangers | 1872 | 51,700 | Scottish Premiership, Scottish Cup, Scottish League Cup, UEFA Europa League | 2nd | 2nd |
| Leeds United | 1919 | 37,900 | EFL Championship, FA Cup, EFL Cup | 3rd (lost in play-offs) | 1st |
McCoist responded, “I’m not disappointed at all because, from the outside looking in, Leeds United appear to be in good shape.
“[Rangers] simply require restructuring, regrouping, and a change of direction. It is not an overnight remedy, but if you can achieve the same level of transformation behind the scenes as Leeds has, I’d be happy with that.
“Leeds to me, look as though they’re going to go back into the top-flight, as though they’ve got good organisation behind them; good manager, good players – and if we can get that, I’d be delighted.”
Leeds United can provide the perfect template for Rangers.
Rangers “just” need rebuilding and regrouping, implying that the 49ers still have a significant task ahead of them, but the Ibrox club will be in a good position once the takeover is complete.
Unlike the American group’s purchase of Leeds, which occurred following their relegation to the Championship in 2023, their acquisition of Rangers comes with relative stability in terms of their position.
Rangers’ 2-1 setback at home to Motherwell on Saturday moves them closer to third-placed Hibernian than Celtic at the top of the Premiership standings, although they will begin next season on par with their Old Firm rivals.
Celtic’s superior financial situation could be a thing of the past once Rangers are being backed by the multi-billion coffers of the 49ers, giving them the ideal foundation to build a successful title challenge.
Leeds’ ship has been steaded by the 49ers to put them on course for the Premier League, and with Gers having just one team to topple north of the border, success could be well within their grasp once more.
