Football creates a safe space for children as two new FIFA Arenas open in the West Bank
Two new FIFA Arena mini-pitches have opened in the West Bank, giving children and local communities in Marah Rabah and Qusin a dedicated place to play football, exercise and come together. The new facilities, developed by FIFA in partnership with the Palestine Football Association and co-financed by FIFA and the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, are now open for community use. The opening comes at a difficult time for communities across the West Bank, where restrictions have disrupted everyday life and limited access to schools, services, sport and other activities. The two pitches are intended to provide something practical for local children: a safe and accessible space where they can play football, meet friends and take part in organised sport. More than 150 children from 14 local Palestinian teams are taking part in the Unite for Peace: Kids’ Cup, which is being held across the two new facilities. The five-day tournament features group-stage matches followed by quarter-finals, semi-finals and a final, alongside additional football activities for children and members of the surrounding communities. The tournament is being held as part of FIFA’s Unite for Peace campaign, with the initiative promoting friendship, inclusion, teamwork, mutual respect and fair play through football. FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the long-term value of the facilities would be measured by what happens on the pitches every day. “For children living in communities where life is often disrupted by restrictions and uncertainty, having a place where they can play football, meet their friends and take part in organised sport matters more than ever.” The Unite for Peace: Kids’ Cup will conclude on 25 September, when the final and awards ceremony will take place alongside the formal inauguration of both FIFA Arenas. One of the new facilities is located in the Thaher Al Thour area, opposite Marah Rabah’s girls’ high school, while the second is situated in the north-western part of Qusin village, next to the main road connecting Qusin and Deir Sharaf. Rather than simply being ceremonial projects, both pitches are designed to become permanent community football facilities, supported by football equipment to help ensure they continue to be used after the tournament. The projects form part of FIFA’s wider FIFA Arena Programme, which aims to create safe, durable and accessible football spaces in communities around the world. For the children taking part in the tournament, however, the significance is much more immediate: two new pitches, a chance to play, and somewhere to come together through football. SNN Sports will continue to highlight stories from across the football world where the game is making an impact beyond the pitch.
Joe Savage joins Cowdenbeath board as former Hearts chief eyes SPFL return
Former Hearts sporting director Joe Savage has joined the board of Cowdenbeath, with the experienced football figure determined to help the Blue Brazil return to the SPFL. Savage, 42, has taken up a director role at Central Park after a career spanning recruitment, scouting and senior football operations. The former Arbroath, East Fife, Stenhousemuir and Albion Rovers forward spent almost four years at Hearts, where he played a key role in shaping the club both on and off the pitch. During his time at Tynecastle, Savage helped oversee the development of the Hearts women’s team into a full-time operation, the creation of the club’s B team and a number of significant first-team recruitment successes. Among the players brought to Hearts during his tenure were Lawrence Shankland, Cammy Devlin, Beni Baningime, Blair Spittal and Frankie Kent, while Alan Forrest also joined the club before later moving on to Dundee. Savage left Hearts in July 2024 and subsequently established his own football consultancy business, continuing to work within the game. Now, his attention turns to Cowdenbeath. The Blue Brazil have been outside the SPFL since relegation through the League Two play-offs in 2022 brought an end to their 117-year spell in senior league football. Cowdenbeath currently compete in the Lowland League and have endured a difficult start to the current campaign, sitting 13th after six matches with one victory. However, Savage has made it clear that his ambition is to help the Central Park club build towards a return to the national leagues. Speaking after his appointment, Savage said: “It is a real honour and privilege to be joining the board of Cowdenbeath FC. “As a club I know well, I look forward to helping them achieve their ambitions of getting back into the SPFL and building something the fans and community can be proud of.” Cowdenbeath believe Savage will bring considerable football knowledge and experience to the boardroom as the club looks to rebuild and establish a route back into the SPFL. Savage recently featured on SNN Sports’ Football Voices The appointment comes shortly after Savage appeared as a guest on SNN Sports’ Football Voices podcast, where he discussed his career and experiences within Scottish football. His appearance offered listeners an insight into the world of recruitment, sporting leadership and the decision-making that goes on behind the scenes at professional clubs. Savage’s move to Cowdenbeath now gives him another opportunity to put that experience into practice, this time with a club looking to rebuild its position within the Scottish football pyramid. For the Blue Brazil, the long-term objective is clear: find a route back to the SPFL and build a sustainable future at Central Park. And with Savage now part of the board, the club has added a figure with extensive experience of football recruitment, club development and working at the highest levels of the Scottish game.
Celtic’s European Collapse: O’Neill Takes Responsibility
Celtic’s Champions League hopes have gone up in smoke in one of the most remarkable European collapses in the club’s recent history. Holding a 4-0 aggregate lead over LASK, Martin O’Neill’s side somehow surrendered their advantage in Austria before eventually losing the tie 5-4 after extra time. It was a night that Celtic simply won’t want to remember. O’Neill was brutally honest afterwards, accepting responsibility for the collapse. “I’m responsible for this one. Without a doubt.” The Celtic boss admitted the result was a major disappointment and acknowledged that his side are still a long way from being the finished article. And the consequences stretch far beyond European disappointment. Champions League qualification would have delivered a huge financial boost to Celtic, as well as making the club a far more attractive proposition in the transfer market. O’Neill admitted that the absence of Champions League football could now affect Celtic’s ability to bring players to Parkhead. “Financially, for prestige, but we have to pick ourselves up. That’s my responsibility again to do that.” For Celtic captain Callum McGregor, there were no excuses either. The midfielder admitted Celtic were too passive and looked scared to take control of the game. “We got what we deserved. We were passive all night.” McGregor also placed responsibility firmly on the players, insisting there could be no excuses after surrendering such a commanding advantage. Former Celtic captain Scott Brown believes LASK simply wanted it more, while Neil Lennon described Celtic as looking exhausted and fragile in the key battles. And that may be the biggest concern for O’Neill. Celtic didn’t simply lose a football match. They lost a four-goal advantage in a game that appeared almost impossible to throw away. Now comes the reaction. The league campaign continues, the transfer window is still open, and O’Neill has to somehow lift a squad that has suffered a potentially defining European setback. Celtic have been here before. The question now is whether they can show the reaction their captain demanded. Because after a collapse like this, the response could define their season.
Hearts 2-2 Rapid Vienna: Wilson wondergoal gives Jambos hope after late European blow
James Wilson produced a moment of magic as Hearts fought back from behind twice, but Rapid Vienna’s late equaliser leaves the Conference League play-off perfectly poised. Hearts will travel to Vienna with everything still to play for after a thrilling 2-2 draw with Rapid Vienna at Tynecastle. The visitors struck first in the 30th minute when Serge-Philippe Raux-Yao rose highest from a corner to head Rapid into the lead. Hearts had chances to respond before the break but found themselves behind at half-time, leaving Wouter Vrancken’s side needing a stronger second-half showing. And they delivered. The Jambos came flying out after the interval and were rewarded in the 55th minute when Josh McPake’s delivery was turned into his own net by Raux-Yao. The momentum had shifted and Hearts sensed an opportunity to take control. Vrancken then made a decisive change, bringing James Wilson off the bench in the 56th minute. Just six minutes later, the teenager produced a moment that will live long in the memory. Wilson collected the ball outside the box before unleashing an unstoppable strike into the top corner from around 30 yards. Tynecastle erupted as Hearts completed the turnaround and suddenly found themselves 2-1 ahead. Rapid, however, refused to go away. The Austrian side increased the pressure as the game entered its final stages and eventually found an equaliser in the 79th minute. Nikolaus Wurmbrand finished from a difficult angle after Rapid won a corner, restoring parity and denying Hearts what would have been a memorable comeback victory. There was still time for both sides to search for a winner, but neither could find the breakthrough. The final whistle confirmed a 2-2 draw and leaves the tie finely balanced ahead of the return leg in Vienna. For Hearts, there is plenty to take from the performance. They showed character to recover from going behind, Wilson’s spectacular goal provided another glimpse of his huge potential, and the Jambos proved they can compete with a strong Rapid side. But the late equaliser will undoubtedly leave Vrancken frustrated after his team had fought so hard to turn the game around. The prize is now clear. One more big performance in Vienna could send Hearts into the Conference League group stage. Hearts 2-2 Rapid Vienna ⚽ Rapid: Serge-Philippe Raux-Yao (30′), Nikolaus Wurmbrand (79′) ⚽ Hearts: Serge-Philippe Raux-Yao OG (55′), James Wilson (62′) Second leg: Rapid Vienna v Hearts — Thursday, August 27
Gent 0-0 Hibernian: Hibs hold firm in Belgium to set up huge Easter Road second leg
Hibernian produced a disciplined defensive performance in Belgium to hold Gent to a goalless draw and give themselves a major opportunity in the second leg at Easter Road. Hibernian have given themselves an excellent chance of reaching the Conference League group stage after holding Gent to a 0-0 draw in Belgium. David Gray’s side survived an early spell of pressure before growing into the game and ultimately leaving the Planet Group Arena with a result that could prove hugely valuable. The biggest opportunity of the night fell to Hibs in the 15th minute. Owen Elding stepped up from the penalty spot with the chance to give the visitors the lead, but his effort was saved low to the goalkeeper’s left. It was a huge opportunity missed, but Hibs did not allow the disappointment to affect their performance. Gent continued to look dangerous, with Hibernian having to remain organised and disciplined without the ball. Raphael Sallinger played an important role behind the Hibs defence, while the visitors worked hard to limit Gent’s opportunities. The first half ended goalless and Hibs could take encouragement from the fact they had weathered the hosts’ early pressure. Gray turned to his bench in the second half, introducing Martin Boyle and Jamie McGrath as Hibs looked to add more attacking threat. The game became increasingly tense as both sides searched for an opening, but neither could find the decisive touch. Hibs defended their penalty area impressively during the closing stages, with Gent unable to find a way through. Gray’s players also showed considerable discipline, despite picking up a number of bookings late in the game. The final whistle confirmed a 0-0 draw — a result which leaves the tie perfectly poised heading back to Edinburgh. There will undoubtedly be some frustration at the missed penalty, particularly given the opportunity it represented, but Hibs will be delighted with the overall outcome. They now return to Easter Road knowing that victory will send them into the next stage of the competition. After a long European journey, Hibernian are just 90 minutes away from potentially securing a place in the Conference League group stage. And with home advantage behind them, Gray will believe his side have every chance of finishing the job. Gent 0-0 Hibernian ❌ Owen Elding missed penalty (15′) Second leg: Hibernian v Gent — Thursday, August 27
Motherwell 1-3 Freiburg: Well suffer second-half collapse after stunning start against Bundesliga opposition
Motherwell’s European adventure suffered a blow at Fir Park as Freiburg came from behind to claim a 3-1 victory in the first leg of their Conference League play-off. Motherwell will have it all to do in Germany next week after suffering a 3-1 defeat to Freiburg at Fir Park. Alfred Johansson’s side made the perfect start when Regan Charles-Cook fired Motherwell ahead inside just two minutes, sending the home support into raptures. The Steelmen were fearless in the opening stages and looked capable of causing a major upset against a Freiburg side preparing for another European campaign. Charles-Cook’s opener came after Emmanuel Longelo created the opportunity, with the forward keeping his composure to fire into the bottom corner. Freiburg gradually began to settle, however, and started to exert greater pressure on the Motherwell defence. Alex Paulsen was called into action on several occasions, while Derry Scherhant struck the post with a free-kick as the visitors began to find openings. Motherwell’s resistance was eventually broken in the 28th minute. Matthias Ginter rose highest from a Freiburg set piece to head past Paulsen, with the goal eventually confirmed following a VAR review. The equaliser changed the momentum of the game, but Motherwell went into the interval level at 1-1 and still had every reason to believe they could take something from the tie. The decisive moment came just after the hour mark. Martin Moormann was initially shown a yellow card after a challenge inside the Motherwell box, but following a VAR review the decision was upgraded to a straight red. Freiburg were awarded a penalty and Ginter stepped up to send Paulsen the wrong way, completing his second goal of the evening and putting the German side 2-1 ahead. Motherwell were now facing the difficult task of taking on Bundesliga opposition with ten men. Despite being reduced to ten, Johansson’s side continued to battle and had opportunities to make life uncomfortable for Freiburg. Seb Palmer-Houlden went close with a header late on, while Paulsen continued to keep the visitors from extending their advantage. Motherwell’s effort deserved credit, but Freiburg’s quality eventually told in stoppage time. Keisuke Goto rose to head home Vincenzo Grifo’s corner in the sixth minute of added time, putting the visitors 3-1 ahead and leaving Motherwell facing a huge challenge in the return leg. It was a harsh ending for a Motherwell side who had competed bravely for long periods, but the red card and penalty ultimately swung the tie firmly in Freiburg’s favour. Johansson’s team will now travel to Germany next Thursday knowing they need something special to overturn the two-goal deficit. Motherwell 1-3 Freiburg ⚽ Motherwell: Regan Charles-Cook (2′) ⚽ Freiburg: Matthias Ginter (28′, 65′ pen), Keisuke Goto (90+6′) 🟥 Motherwell: Martin Moormann (65′) Second leg: Freiburg v Motherwell — Thursday, August 27
Rangers 1-0 Jablonec: Naderi gives Gers slender advantage as McInnes admits there is still work to do
Ryan Naderi’s second-half strike handed Rangers a narrow first-leg advantage over Jablonec, but Derek McInnes’ side were forced to defend their lead with ten men after Cammy Devlin’s red card. Rangers take a slender advantage to the Czech Republic after beating Jablonec 1-0 at Ibrox in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League play-off. Ryan Naderi scored the only goal of the night shortly after half-time, but the victory was far from comfortable for Derek McInnes’ side, who were forced to play the final stages with ten men following Cammy Devlin’s dismissal. The result gives Rangers something to take into next week’s return leg, but McInnes was quick to acknowledge that his side remain a work in progress. After Sunday’s emphatic 5-1 victory over St Mirren, there was a noticeable drop in performance during a first half which ended with the Ibrox crowd voicing their frustration. Jablonec looked organised and were able to frustrate Rangers’ attempts to build momentum, with the visitors creating the first meaningful opportunity of the evening when Polidar tested Ivor Pandur inside the opening five minutes. Rangers gradually began to find their feet, with Djeidi Gassama seeing an effort saved before Vanja Dragojevic went close from distance. Dragojevic then came closest to breaking the deadlock in the 26th minute when his effort struck the post, as Rangers struggled to turn possession into clear-cut chances. Naderi also had an opportunity before the interval after a cut-back from Thelo Aasgaard found him in a dangerous position, but the striker couldn’t make the necessary connection. The home side needed a response after the break — and they got it just five minutes into the second half. Dan Neil delivered the ball towards the back post, where Daisuke Yokota headed it back across goal. Naderi was in the right place at the right time, smashing the ball into the roof of the net from close range to give Rangers a 1-0 lead. The goal immediately lifted the atmosphere inside Ibrox and Rangers had an excellent opportunity to double their advantage shortly afterwards. Naderi turned provider for Gassama, but with the forward presented with a golden opportunity from close range, he somehow lifted his effort over the crossbar. That miss would prove increasingly significant as the game entered its final stages. McInnes introduced Cammy Devlin from the bench, but the midfielder’s evening lasted just five minutes. Devlin was shown a straight red card after a high challenge on Jablonec’s Jiri Slama. The decision was reviewed and ultimately upheld, leaving Rangers with ten men for the closing stages. McInnes later admitted there was no argument with the dismissal, although he felt the incident looked worse than the actual intent behind the challenge. Rangers were forced to manage the game rather than push for a second, with Jablonec unable to make their numerical advantage count. The Czech side will know they remain very much alive in the tie, but Rangers have at least secured a lead to take into the second leg. For McInnes, the clean sheet and victory represent another small step in a rebuilding process that is still very much underway. The Rangers boss admitted there is “still loads of work to do”, while stressing the importance of building confidence through winning matches. He also highlighted the need for greater composure, communication and responsibility from his players as they continue to adapt to his methods. The 4-3-3 system has now produced consecutive victories, following Sunday’s win over St Mirren, although McInnes has previously suggested that he would prefer to play with two strikers. For now, though, Rangers have another victory, another clean sheet and a lead to defend. The real test comes next Thursday. Rangers travel to Jablonec for the second leg knowing that a draw will be enough to secure their place in the Conference League group stage — but based on Thursday night’s performance, McInnes knows his side will have to improve if they are to finish the job. Rangers 1-0 Jablonec ⚽ Rangers: Ryan Naderi (50′) 🟥 Rangers: Cammy Devlin (74′) Next up: Jablonec vs Rangers — Thursday, August 27
369 Years of Scots Helping Scots: Scott P. McKenzie on Scotland, Heritage, Sport and the Future
SNN Sports’ CEO Lee Anderson speaks exclusively to Scots’ Charitable Society President Scott P. McKenzie about 369 years of Scottish heritage, community, sport and the future of Scottish identity overseas. There are organisations that preserve history. And then there are organisations that have lived through it. For 369 years, the Scots’ Charitable Society has been doing both. Founded in Boston in 1657 by Scottish immigrants who recognised the importance of looking after their fellow countrymen in a new land, the Society was born from a remarkably straightforward idea: Scots helping Scots. More than three and a half centuries later, that principle remains at the heart of everything it does. But the world around the Society has changed almost beyond recognition. The America of 1657 was a collection of colonies. There was no modern social safety net, no instant communication with Scotland and none of the technology that now allows communities separated by an ocean to remain connected. The need for community, however, has not disappeared. Today, the Scots’ Charitable Society operates around three central pillars — Relief, Scholarship and Culture — providing financial assistance to those facing hardship, supporting students through scholarships and helping preserve and promote Scottish heritage. At the helm is Scott P. McKenzie, a seventh-generation Scot living in America who has spent more than four decades involved with the organisation. For McKenzie, this is far more than an organisation with an impressive historical record. It is a living connection between generations. It is a responsibility. And it is a reminder that Scottish identity does not stop at the country’s borders. Speaking exclusively to SNN Sports, McKenzie discusses what it means to lead an organisation founded in 1657, the importance of Scottish heritage in his own life, why sport can be such a powerful cultural connector, the role of Highland Games, the relationship between Scottish football and overseas communities, and his vision for ensuring the Society remains relevant for another 369 years. A Society Built on Looking After One Another To understand the Scots’ Charitable Society, you have to go back to the beginning. Founded in Boston in 1657 — just 37 years after the arrival of the Pilgrims — the Society was created by Scottish immigrants who understood the difficulties of building a new life far from home. There was no welfare state to fall back on. If someone became sick, lost their livelihood or fell upon difficult times, there were limited resources available. So the Scots created their own. Members contributed to a common fund, known as the “poor boxes”, which could then be used to support Scots who needed assistance. Nearly four centuries later, the circumstances may be different, but McKenzie believes the philosophy remains remarkably relevant. “The Scots’ Charitable Society is a remarkable organization with a very simple purpose at its heart: Scots helping Scots.” That simplicity is perhaps what makes the organisation’s longevity so remarkable. “These Scots decided that they would take responsibility for one another.” The Society has evolved considerably since those early days. Its work now extends beyond direct relief, with scholarships and cultural preservation becoming major parts of its mission. But McKenzie believes the underlying principle has never changed. “What is extraordinary is that the basic principle has survived for more than 369 years. The circumstances have changed dramatically, but the idea hasn’t.” And that, he believes, is what makes the Society’s mission as relevant today as it was in 1657. “We still believe that if someone in the Scottish community needs help, we should be there.” The Responsibility of 369 Years There is something inherently daunting about taking leadership of an organisation that has existed for almost four centuries. Presidents come and go. Generations pass. The organisation remains. For McKenzie, that knowledge fundamentally changes the way he views his role. “It is both an incredible honor and a tremendous responsibility.” He is acutely aware that his presidency is only one chapter in a story that began in the seventeenth century. “When you think about 369 years, you’re talking about generations and generations of people who came before us.” Those generations experienced wars, economic depressions, social upheaval and enormous changes in American society. Yet the Society survived. That gives McKenzie a particular perspective on leadership. “I’m not simply leading an organization that belongs to us today. We’re temporary custodians of something that was entrusted to us by previous generations, and we’re responsible for passing it on to the next generation.” It is a powerful concept. To McKenzie, the objective isn’t simply to maintain what already exists. It is to ensure that the organisation is strong enough to survive long after his presidency has ended. “You don’t want to be the person who presided over the end of something that lasted 369 years.” Instead: “You want to be the person who helped make sure it is here for another 369.” Seven Generations of Scottish Identity McKenzie doesn’t speak about Scottish heritage as an abstract concept. For him, it is personal. As a seventh-generation Scot living in America, Scotland has remained part of his understanding of family, identity and responsibility throughout his life. His mother gave him a piece of advice that stayed with him. “If you want to have an understanding of where you’re going, you need to understand where you came from.” For someone whose Scottish ancestry stretches across seven generations in America, that sense of history carries enormous significance. His ancestors didn’t simply leave Scotland behind. They carried parts of it with them. “They brought traditions, values, stories, music, a sense of community and, perhaps most importantly, the idea that you have an obligation to help the people around you.” That final point is particularly important. Because for McKenzie, Scottish heritage is not simply about the outward symbols of Scottishness. The tartan. The kilt. The clan. The music. All of those things matter. But they are only the visible expression of something deeper. “For me, Scottish heritage isn’t simply about wearing a kilt or knowing your clan tartan.
Rangers Are Searching for Answers: What Is Going Wrong for Derek McInnes?
Derek McInnes arrived at Rangers with a clear objective: restore consistency, raise standards and turn a squad that finished third last season into one capable of challenging for major honours. Four competitive games into his Rangers reign, the warning signs are already there. Thursday night’s 1-1 draw with Jagiellonia Bialystok, which saw Rangers eliminated from the Europa League 3-2 on aggregate, was another frustrating night for a club that simply cannot afford to be out of European contention at this stage of the season. The result means Rangers now drop into the Conference League qualifying play-offs against Jablonec. More importantly, though, the performance raised questions about whether McInnes has inherited deeper problems than initially expected. A familiar Rangers problem The most concerning aspect is not simply the result. It is the lack of a complete performance. McInnes admitted afterwards that Rangers were good in spells but failed to maintain that level across 90 minutes. That has quickly become a theme. Rangers can look dangerous, energetic and capable of dominating an opponent for periods, before suddenly losing control of the match. Against Jagiellonia, that happened after half-time. Rangers had shown enough in the first half to suggest they could find the goal needed to progress. Instead, the performance deteriorated and the visitors grew into the game. For a Rangers side playing at Ibrox, that is a major concern. Did McInnes get the second half wrong? One of the biggest talking points was McInnes’ decision to change formation. The Rangers manager replaced Thelo Aasgaard with Ross McCrorie and moved from three at the back to a back four. The intention was understandable. McInnes wanted his wide players higher up the pitch and believed Rangers needed greater attacking involvement. But the change appeared to have the opposite effect. Rangers lost control of midfield and struggled to build the same momentum they had created before the break. That raises an important question. Was the problem the players, the tactics, or both? McInnes will need to find that answer quickly. Because if Rangers are going to challenge Celtic domestically and make progress in Europe, they cannot afford to repeatedly lose control of matches they should be winning. The Shankland problem Lawrence Shankland was one of the most anticipated arrivals of the summer. His relationship with McInnes at Hearts last season was one of the reasons Rangers supporters were excited about the move. But wearing the Rangers shirt brings an entirely different level of expectation. Every missed chance, poor touch and misplaced pass is magnified. Shankland has also taken on the captaincy, adding another layer of responsibility. He has the quality to succeed at Rangers, but confidence will be crucial. At the moment, Rangers need their main striker to become a focal point rather than another player caught up in the uncertainty surrounding the team. The squad still looks unfinished Perhaps the biggest issue is recruitment. McInnes has already brought in nine players, yet he openly admits that Rangers still require more quality. That is a remarkable admission considering how much work has already gone into rebuilding the squad. The long-term injury to Youssef Chermiti has made the situation even more complicated. Rangers rejected a significant offer for Chermiti before discovering they would potentially lose his services for a considerable period. That leaves another hole to fill at exactly the wrong time. There are also concerns across the defence and in wide areas. Rangers may have signed plenty of players, but quantity is not necessarily the same as quality. The challenge now is finding players capable of immediately improving the starting XI. Where is the leadership? This could be the biggest issue of all. Rangers are a club where pressure comes with the territory. Players are expected to perform in front of more than 50,000 supporters, and mistakes are analysed relentlessly. That requires strong personalities. The departure of James Tavernier has removed a player who, whatever his shortcomings, was accustomed to playing under that pressure. Andy Halliday’s suggestion that Rangers should consider bringing Tavernier back might sound controversial, but it highlights a genuine issue. Who is going to take responsibility when things go wrong? Who demands the ball? Who calms the team down? Who drives Rangers forward when the opposition starts to gain control? At the moment, those questions remain unanswered. Is McInnes already under pressure? It would be premature to suggest Rangers should be considering another managerial change. But it would also be wrong to pretend the start has been good enough. McInnes inherited a club desperate for improvement after last season’s disappointment. He knew the expectations. He knew the scrutiny. And he knew that patience at Rangers is rarely unlimited. The difference between McInnes and Russell Martin is that Rangers supporters have already seen this movie before. A poor start last season developed into something much worse, eventually resulting in Martin losing his job. McInnes has to ensure history does not repeat itself. The good news for Rangers There is still plenty of time to change the narrative. The transfer window remains open. New signings can alter the balance of the squad. Injured players will eventually return. And Rangers are still expected to be one of the strongest teams in Scotland. The Conference League route also gives them another opportunity to build momentum in Europe. But the margin for error is becoming smaller. The performances need to improve quickly, because Rangers cannot spend the entire season waiting for the team to eventually click. The SNN Sports verdict McInnes does not have a Rangers problem that one signing will necessarily fix. He has a team that appears short of confidence, leadership, balance and consistency. The manager deserves time to build his squad, but Rangers also need immediate results. That is the contradiction facing McInnes. He has been brought in to rebuild Rangers, but he is rebuilding while being judged against the expectation of winning now. Thursday night was not simply a European exit. It was another reminder that Rangers still have a considerable amount
Messi Returns for Inter Miami Following Father’s Death
Lionel Messi made an emotional return to action for Inter Miami on Wednesday, just days after the death of his father, Jorge Messi. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner came on as a half-time substitute in Miami’s 3-2 defeat by Leon in the Leagues Cup, receiving a huge reception from supporters at the Chase Stadium. Messi’s father, Jorge, died in Rosario, Argentina, last week at the age of 68 following a long illness. He had been a hugely influential figure throughout his son’s career, becoming Messi’s agent when he was just 14 and remaining by his side as he developed into one of football’s greatest ever players. The 39-year-old had missed Miami’s 2-1 defeat by Monterrey on Saturday after returning to Argentina for his father’s private funeral on Sunday. Messi had also raised doubts over his playing future following his father’s death. In an emotional social media message, the Argentina captain admitted he was “really not sure if I’ll carry on doing it for much longer”, while revealing that his father had encouraged him to play at one more World Cup despite his deteriorating health. Messi subsequently returned to the United States and made himself available to Inter Miami manager Guillermo Hoyos for their must-win meeting with Mexican side Leon. Despite Messi’s return, Miami were unable to progress and were eliminated in the opening phase of the Leagues Cup for the first time since the competition was expanded in 2023. Miami won the tournament in 2023, shortly after Messi’s arrival at the club. The Argentina forward’s return was praised by his team-mates, with midfielder Yannick Bright describing his appearance as “incredible”. “I wasn’t expecting it,” Bright said. “It shows how much he cares. When I saw he was here, all I was thinking about was to give my 150% for him. “It’s a tough situation. We try to stay close to him and support him as much as we can, but it’s a lot.” Leon manager Javier Gandolfi also paid tribute to Messi, saying the legendary forward is a “human being that is different to the rest”. “Today he demonstrated once more what he’s made of,” Gandolfi added. Messi’s future now remains one of the biggest talking points in world football, with the veteran forward appearing increasingly uncertain about how much longer he wants to continue his remarkable career. For now, however, Messi has shown that despite the most difficult period of his personal life, he remains willing to stand alongside his Inter Miami team-mates.