SPFL Archives - Page 4 of 23

A COMPLETE preview of the 2026/27 William Hill Premiership

Millions of eyes from all around the world were fixed on the Scottish Premiership last season as Hearts bid to end the Glasgow-centric dominance that has reigned over Scotland since the 80s. Celtic got the title over the line at the last minute, which many will find disappointing, but the global attention on Scottish football can only be a good thing. Hearts’ weren’t the only underdog story of last season with Motherwell and Falkirk providing excellent stories in their own right. Whilst the 2026/27 season certainly has a hard act to follow in terms of entertainment factor, here’s everything you need to know about the league heading into the next season. Aberdeen: It’s a first full season in charge for Stephen Robinson who replaced Jimmy Thelin in March. It’s always hard to predict how Aberdeen will fair as life post Derrick McInnes can best be described as a rollercoaster. Aberdeen have flirted with relegation the past few years before proving to be too big to go down. But of course, there is the third place season of 2022/23 and the Scottish Cup win in 2025 to counter. It’s been a busy summer in the North East with 10 signings thus far. Stephen Robinson has re-united with Connor Ronan from their time at St. Mirren. They’ll hope the force is with them after signing Obi Wan Kenobi’s great-grandson in Nesta Guinness-Walker, Tony Yogane’s positive loan at Dundee has rewarded him with a move to Aberdeen. They’ve also added household Premiership names in Lewis Mayo and Brad Lyons to name a few. Incomings: Connor Ronan, Alexander Briedl, Lewis Mayo, Brad Lyons, Toyosi Olusanya, Nesta Guinness-Walker, Dan Happe, Ayoub Mouloua, Marius Müller, Tony Yogane. Outgoings: Topi Keskinen, Alexander Jensen, Graeme Shinnie, Ryan Duncan, Marko Lazetic, Tom Mcintrye, Per Kristian Bratviet, Elvis Bwomono, Vicente Besuijen, Alfie Stewart (loan), Alfie Bavidge (loan). What to expect: Mid-table finish. Celtic: Celtic are now five-in-a-row champions, but it somehow feels like a dark cloud is hanging over the club. Despite the drama from the end of last season, it’s fair to say that last season’s Celtic side are probably the worst title winners in recent memory. Although, that speaks to just high the bar is for Celtic. Martin O’Neill will lead Celtic out for another season after signing a further one-year deal, somewhat delaying another managerial appointment. Despite criticisms surrounding their performances or style of play, O’Neill’s Celtic have shown that they can really turn it up when it matters, You can look ash their second half dismantlement of St. Mirren in the Scottish Cup semi-final, or snatching the title from Hearts with just minutes remaining, or their comeback against Rangers in the split and much, much more. Unfortunately for Celtic, the fall-out between the fans and the board continues after a lack of signings, with Celtic fans standing firmly behind the ‘not another penny’ campaign until they see change. Failures to secure new deals for Marcelo Sarrachi and Kelechi Iheanacho only add fuel to the fire too. It truly feels like a lot of discontent hangs over the club at the minute. Incomings: Camilo Duran Outgoings: Luis Palma, Maik Nawrocki, Kelechi Iheanacho, Stephen Welsh, Hayato Inamura, Josh Clarke, Shin Yamada (loan), Kasper Schmeichel (retired) What to expect: Title contenders Dundee: When Stephen Pressely was appointed as Dundee boss last season, many eyebrows were raised from Dundee fans and neutrals alike, many even tipped them to go down, but Pressely kept them up at a canter. They’ll be without last season’s star man in Luke Graham after the defender departed for Stoke in a club record deal. Losses of Trevor Carson and Jon McCracken in the goalkeeping department may force the club to look for a replacement between the posts. Incomings: Idris Odutayo, Zan Besir, Alan Forrest, Ryan Finnigan, Owen Bevan Outgoings: Luke Graham, Jon McCracken, Ethan Ingram, Clark Robertson, Paul Digby, Billy Koumetio, Emile Acquah, Lewis Montsma, Trevor Carson (retired) What to expect: Bottom-half/ relegation candidates Dundee United: Much like his former club Aberdeen, Jim Goodwin’s recent career is another rollercoaster. When he took the Tannadice helm in 2023 the club was as good as relegated. Goodwin led them back to the Premiership at the first time of asking, before securing European football upon their Premiership return, even going toe-to-toe with Rapid Vienna in the conference league. They seemed to revert to the mode with a bottom six finish last year. It’s been a busy window on the other side of Dens Road so far. Jack Walton has returned to the club, there’s also been promising signings from Australia whilst Dylan Tait is an impressive signing from their competitors in Falkirk. Incomings: Jesse Randall, Lachlan Rose, Joshua Rawlins, Dylan Tait, Michael Forbes, Jordan Amissah, Jack Walton, Medhi Merghem, Idjessi Metsoko (loan) Outgoings: Craig Sibbald, Ryan Strain, Ashely Maynard-Brewer, Johnny Russell, Kristijan Trapanovski, Dave Richards, Lewis O’Connell, Owen Stiron (loan), Ruairidh Adams (loan) What to expect: Mid-table finish Falkirk: Falkirk returned to the Premiership after 16 years last season, marking a double-promotion with a top-six finish. A side who built on solid home performances last season and nearly secured European football in the process. Falkirk are on the up at the moment and they can build on this success. Or, whatever goes up can come straight back down. They’ve lost star men from last season in Barney Stewart and Calvin Miller, Filip Lissah hasn’t returned to the club following an impressive loan spell. It could well get worse with John McGlynn being one of the leading contenders to replace Steve Clarke as Scotland boss. Incomings: Lewis Nielson, Jack McMillan, Deniss Melniks, Craig Sibbald, Scott Tanser, Jay Hogarth, Ethan Laidlaw, Paul McGovern Outgoings: Barney Stewart, Calvin Miller, Dylan Tait, Jamie Sneddon, Gary Oliver, Brian Graham, Rhys Walker, Sean Mackie What to expect: Bottom-half finish Heart Of Midlothian: Hearts were mere minutes away from becoming the first non Old-Firm cub to win the league in over 40-years. Derrick McInnes has since departed for Rangers and its a completely new look Hearts side for the Wouter Vrancken era. Numerous new signings

July 20, 2026

The 22 Loudest Football Stadiums in Britain Ranked

Few topics in football divide opinion quite like atmosphere. Every supporter believes their home ground is the loudest, most intimidating place to visit, whether it’s a Premier League giant, a historic EFL venue or one of Scotland’s iconic stadiums. While success on the pitch often helps create noise, the very best atmospheres are built on passionate supporters, tradition and unwavering backing regardless of results. Capacity doesn’t always matter either – some of the loudest grounds in Britain are among the smallest. With that in mind, SNN Sports has ranked the 22 best football atmospheres across Britain. 22. St Mary’s Stadium – Southampton St Mary’s can often be overlooked when discussing Britain’s loudest grounds, but Southampton supporters know how to create an atmosphere when the occasion demands it. Big league fixtures and promotion battles have shown just how vocal the Saints faithful can be. 21. Valley Parade – Bradford City Bradford City continue to attract impressive crowds, and Valley Parade has become one of League One’s most intimidating venues. The Bantams’ supporters rarely let the noise drop and have played a huge part in the club’s recent resurgence. 20. Home Park – Plymouth Argyle Few clubs boast away support like Plymouth Argyle, and the Green Army bring that same passion to Home Park. The long journey for visiting teams only adds to the challenge of playing in Devon. 19. CBS Arena – Coventry City Coventry City’s recent success has brought the CBS Arena back to life. The Sky Blues supporters have rediscovered their voice and turned their home ground into a difficult place for opponents. 18. Molineux – Wolverhampton Wanderers The South Bank remains one of English football’s most iconic stands. When Wolves are on the front foot, Molineux produces an intense atmosphere capable of lifting the home side and unsettling visitors. 17. St Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park – Birmingham City A renewed sense of optimism has transformed Birmingham City’s home atmosphere. Bigger crowds and growing belief around the club have helped make St Andrew’s one of the Championship’s loudest grounds. 16. Old Trafford – Manchester United Despite often being criticised for its quieter moments, Old Trafford can still produce a special atmosphere. When the Stretford End is fully behind the team, the noise echoes around one of football’s most famous stadiums. 15. The Den – Millwall Few away trips feel as hostile as a visit to The Den. Millwall supporters have built a reputation for creating one of the most intimidating matchday environments in Britain. 14. Hill Dickinson Stadium – Everton Everton’s new home has made an immediate impression. Although Goodison Park will always hold a special place in supporters’ hearts, the atmosphere at the Hill Dickinson Stadium is already proving to be among the Premier League’s best. 13. Pride Park – Derby County Derby County supporters consistently turn out in huge numbers and create an impressive wall of noise. Pride Park remains one of the standout atmospheres outside the Premier League. 12. Fratton Park – Portsmouth Steep stands, passionate supporters and an old-school feel combine to make Fratton Park one of England’s toughest away days. Portsmouth fans rarely disappoint when it comes to backing their side. 11. Tynecastle Park – Heart of Midlothian Tynecastle is one of Scottish football’s true football grounds. With supporters sitting close to the pitch and packed stands on every side, Hearts fans generate a relentless atmosphere that has made life difficult for countless visiting teams over the years. 10. City Ground – Nottingham Forest The City Ground has enjoyed a new lease of life since Nottingham Forest’s return to the Premier League. The atmosphere generated by the home support regularly creates one of England’s best matchday experiences. 9. Hillsborough – Sheffield Wednesday One of the country’s most historic stadiums continues to produce unforgettable atmospheres. Hillsborough remains a fortress whenever Sheffield Wednesday supporters are in full voice. 8. Selhurst Park – Crystal Palace Crystal Palace’s Holmesdale Fanatics are renowned across Europe for their constant backing, displays and chants. Selhurst Park’s compact design only helps amplify the noise. 7. St James’ Park – Newcastle United Football means everything in Newcastle, and that passion is reflected every matchday. With towering stands and an incredible home support, St James’ Park remains one of Britain’s great football venues. 6. Stadium of Light – Sunderland Sunderland supporters have rediscovered their voice in recent seasons, turning the Stadium of Light into one of the loudest grounds in England. On its day, the atmosphere rivals almost anywhere in the country. 5. Villa Park – Aston Villa European nights have taken Villa Park’s atmosphere to another level. Aston Villa supporters have always been among England’s most passionate, creating an intimidating environment for visiting teams. 4. Elland Road – Leeds United Elland Road has built its reputation over decades as one of football’s most hostile away grounds. Leeds supporters create relentless noise from first whistle to last, especially during the biggest matches. 3. Ibrox – Rangers Few stadiums can match Ibrox on a European night. Rangers supporters never stop backing their side, producing an atmosphere that has become famous throughout world football. 2. Anfield – Liverpool The famous Kop remains one of football’s most iconic stands. Whether it’s “You’ll Never Walk Alone” before kick-off or the intensity of a Champions League night, Anfield consistently delivers unforgettable atmospheres. 1. Celtic Park – Celtic For SNN Sports, no stadium in Britain tops Celtic Park. From Old Firm clashes to memorable European evenings, the noise inside Parkhead is relentless. The combination of over 60,000 passionate supporters, iconic traditions and an electric atmosphere makes it Britain’s loudest football stadium. Do You Agree? Every football supporter will have their own opinion on this ranking, and that’s what makes these debates so enjoyable. Did your club make the list? Should Tynecastle, Fratton Park or The Den be higher? Is there another stadium we’ve overlooked? Let us know your top five in the comments and across SNN Sports’ social media channels.

July 20, 2026

Hibernian bolster defensive options with arrival from Millwall

Millwall wing-back Adam Mayor has become Hibernian’s fifth signing of the summer, joining on an undisclosed fee. The 21-year-old spent last season on loan at Cambridge United in League One, making 35 appearances, scoring on three occasions and assisting on four. The Englishman is expected to provide competition to Nicky Cadden and Jordan Obita at left wing-back in David Gray’s favoured back three. Speaking on his arrival, Gray said: “We’re delighted to bring another exciting young player into the building and welcome Adam to Hibernian FC. “He is a promising young player to add to the group, and he has already made successful strides in his career so far. “There’s no doubt Adam will bring real athleticism to the squad. He’s a wing-back who really loves attacking and putting crosses into the box and can contribute at both ends of the pitch. “We’re all looking forward to him joining the group and working with him going forward.” In Mayor’s first interview as a Hibs player, he said: “I’ve known [of the interest] for a few weeks now, and as soon as I heard about it, I was really interested, so I’m just happy to finally get it over the line. “I think it’s just the different opportunities [that attracted me here]. “You’re playing in front of big crowds here at home, and you get the chance to push to play in Europe every season, so I think it’s just a different challenge and a lot of bigger opportunities as well. “My aim is to just go and create and score as many goals as I can, and obviously as a team we want to go and do well in Europe and finish as high as we can in the league. “Personally, I want to create and score as many goals as I can. As a team we want to do well in Europe and win a few derbies! Mayor joins fellow youngster Nathan Lowe as Hibernian’s second signing of the day and the fifth incoming so far this season. All of Hibs’ signings plied their trade in League One last season.

July 14, 2026

Cammy Devlin joins Rangers following Hearts departure

Following the expiration of his Hearts contract, Cammy Devlin has joined Rangers on a two-year deal. A fan-favourite at Tynecastle, Devlin made 176 appearances for Hearts over a five-year spell after joining from Newcastle Jets in 2021. The 28-year-old has been capped five times at senior level for Australia, making his debut in 2022. The midfielder was included in the 2022 & 2026 Socceroos World Cup squads, but did not play at either tournament. Hearts announced yesterday that Devlin was given a deadline to commit his future to the club, but would depart a free agent after that deadline was not met. He now becomes the third man to swap Hearts for Rangers this summer after Lawrence Shankland also departed on a free, with Derrick Iciness taking over at his boyhood club. Offering his first comments as a Rangers player, Devlin said: “It feels amazing. I am obviously so happy to get it over the line; with the gaffer coming here and a lot of change happening at the club, it feels like a great time to be coming here. “It is just an absolute honour and privilege; I am so aware, being in Scotland for a while now, the size of the club and everything that comes with playing at such a massive football club. “To call myself a Rangers player now feels pretty special and I just cannot wait to get started.” Derrick McIness was delighted to welcome Devlin to Glasgow, he said: “Cammy is obviously a player I know, and I am well aware what he will offer to Rangers. “His levels of consistency for me were superb, and he is the type of player that every manager wants in his team. “He is someone who knows the Scottish league, and nothing will surprise him with what lies ahead. I am looking forward to welcoming Cammy to Rangers and working with him again after he returns from his holiday.” Devlin is now Rangers’ sixth summer signing following the arrivals of Lawrence Shankland, Ross McCrorie, Dan Neil, Ivor Pandur and Ben Godfrey.

July 11, 2026

Allan McGregor returns to Rangers

Rangers have officially announced the arrival of Allan McGregor as the club’s new goalkeeping coach. McGregor returns to the club, in which he spent two spells as a player at, winning four league titles in the progress. He was also a part of Barry Ferguson’s interim staff at the tail end of the 2024/25 season but now joins the club on a fulltime basis as new manager Derek McInnes adds to his backroom staff. He is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the club’s history and was awarded Hall of Fame status in 2023 alongside recently departed James Tavernier. The former Scotland international replaces Sal Bibbo, who was brought to the club by Russell Martin last year. Bibbo left his post to join newly promoted Premier League side Coventry City under Frank Lampard. Rangers confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Ivor Pandur from Hull City last week, with Jack Butland going the other way. Liam Kelly also signed a contract extension until 2028 last month. McGregor said: “Everyone knows what this club means to me, so to have the opportunity to return and help the club in the present and future is a real privilege. “Rangers is a club that demands the very highest standards, and I’m looking forward to getting started, working with the players and staff, and seeing what we can achieve together in this next chapter.” “Allan is a fantastic addition to our coaching staff and brings with him a wealth of experience,” McInnes said. “He knows exactly what it takes to be successful at Rangers and understands the standards that are required every day. “His knowledge, expertise and winning mentality will be a huge asset to the group, and I am looking forward to working closely with him as we continue our preparations for the season ahead.”

July 8, 2026

Hibernian announce third summer signing

Hibernian have announced Leyton Orient midfielder Azeem Abdulai as their third signing of the window. He joins Jason Kerr and Callum Wright who both arrived from Wigan Athletic. Abdulai arrives on a three-year deal signing for an undisclosed fee. The 23-year-old, who came through the Celtic academy before moving down south has primarily played as a box-to-box midfielder, but has also filled in out wide or in central defence on occasion. The midfielder has also been capped on six occasions for Scotland at under-21 level. Head coach David Gray commented on the signing: “Azeem is exactly the profile we wanted – he’s athletic, aggressive, technically secure on the ball and will play box-to-box. “He gives us more options in the midfield area and that creates a healthy competition for places. We are excited to have him on board, and we’re all looking forward to working with him.” In his first interview with the club, Abdulai mentioned how easy the decision to sign for Hibs was and how excited he is to return to Scotland. He said: “I’m buzzing to be here. It’s a massive club and, as soon as I heard there was interest, I wanted to get the move done straight away. Coming back home is a big thing for me and, like I said, Hibs is a massive club. “I can’t wait. I’ve seen plenty of videos and I’ve been to the stadium before – I think it was actually the first stadium I ever visited. I know the fans have incredible support for the team and I can’t wait to get out there and make them proud. “Everything they said was really positive, so it made the decision easy. Coming back to Scotland was important to me and, being Scottish, I know how big Hibs is. The direction the club is going in and the project they’ve got made it a no-brainer.” Abdulai has already joined up with the Hibs squad for their pre-season training camp in Ireland as the club defeated Norther Irish side Cliftonville 5-1 earlier today.

July 4, 2026

Hearts Sign Promising Young Forward Cormac Daly on Two-Year Deal

Hearts have confirmed the signing of teenage forward Cormac Daly on a two-year deal. The 19-year-old joins the Edinburgh club after leaving Nottingham Forest and becomes the latest young player to arrive at Tynecastle this summer. Daly started his career at Hamilton Academical, where he built a strong reputation as one of Scotland’s most promising young attackers. He played a key role in Hamilton’s Scottish Under-18 League title win, with the Accies finishing ahead of both Celtic and Rangers. His performances earned him a move to Nottingham Forest in 2023. Although he did not make a senior appearance for the Premier League club, he continued his development in England and gained valuable experience in a full-time environment. Last season, Daly spent time on loan at Hereford. The move gave him his first run of senior football and allowed him to test himself against experienced players every week. He made 24 appearances for the National League North side, starting 23 games and scoring three goals. Hearts have focused heavily on signing young talent in recent windows, and Daly fits that approach. The club see him as a player with plenty of potential and someone who can continue to improve in the years ahead. The move also gives the teenager the chance to return to Scotland and continue his development at a big club. While he may need time to settle, his experience in senior football should help him make the step up.

June 30, 2026

Joe Hugill Signs New Kilmarnock Deal Until 2028 After Impressive First Season

Kilmarnock striker Joe Hugill has committed his future to the club after signing a contract extension that will keep him at BBSP Stadium Rugby Park until the summer of 2028. The 22-year-old forward joined Killie on a permanent transfer from Manchester United in January 2026, initially putting pen to paper on an 18-month deal. After patiently waiting for his opportunity, Hugill became a key figure in Kilmarnock Football Club manager Neil McCann’s side, producing a sensational run of form during the closing months of the 2025/26 campaign. The striker finished the season as Killie’s joint-top goalscorer, finding the net eight times alongside Tyreece John-Jules. Hugill also added two assists in his 15 appearances, quickly becoming a popular figure among the supporters. His performances attracted attention shortly after arriving in Ayrshire, with his impact highlighting the potential he has to continue developing in the famous blue and white. With preparations already underway for the 2026/27 season, Hugill has chosen to remain part of the club’s exciting plans, which include continued squad development, the completion of phase one of Bowie Park and the introduction of a brand-new hybrid grass pitch at Rugby Park following significant investment. The forward believes he is in the right environment to continue improving under the guidance of McCann, Billy Dodds and the rest of the first-team coaching staff, and has agreed to extend his stay by a further year. As part of the new deal, Hugill will also take on a new shirt number, moving from No.44 to become Kilmarnock’s new No.9 ahead of the upcoming campaign. The club’s supporters will be hoping the striker can continue the form that made him one of Killie’s standout performers during the second half of last season.

June 29, 2026

John Spencer and David Caldwell Back Derek McInnes to Deliver Success at Rangers

Former Scotland striker John Spencer believes Rangers have appointed the right man to restore the club to the top of Scottish football after Derek McInnes was unveiled as the new manager at Ibrox. Speaking on the latest SNN Sports Football Podcast, host Scott Bradley was joined by former Chelsea, Rangers and Scotland forward John Spencer, alongside former professional footballer David Caldwell, who enjoyed a career with Mansfield Town, Chesterfield, Torquay United and Belgian side KVV Overpelt before moving into coaching and football analysis. The trio discussed McInnes’ appointment, Rangers’ ambitions under new ownership and the expectations awaiting the former Hearts boss. “McInnes ticks every box” Spencer believes Rangers have finally appointed a manager who understands exactly what is required to succeed at Ibrox. “I think McInnes ticks a lot of boxes for Rangers,” Spencer said. “He’s a Rangers man, a former player, understands Scottish football inside out and knows exactly what the supporters expect. I think it’s a fantastic appointment.” The former Scotland international also praised McInnes’ first press conference, believing the new manager struck the right tone. “He wasn’t making huge promises or saying things just to please people. He spoke well and understands the size of the job. Rangers fans will appreciate that.” Caldwell draws on experience working alongside McInnes Caldwell offered a unique insight into McInnes after previously working alongside him during his spell at Aberdeen, where he assisted with opposition analysis. “I’ve worked with Derek and everybody speaks very highly of him,” Caldwell explained. “I think he’ll do well at Rangers. Football changes quickly and ultimately managers are judged by results, but I believe he’s earned this opportunity.” Having spent more than a decade playing professionally in England and Scotland, Caldwell believes this represents the defining challenge of McInnes’ managerial career. “He’s had experience at several clubs and now he’s got one of the biggest jobs in Scottish football. At Rangers you’re expected to win trophies. That’s the reality.” Why Hearts allowed him to leave One of the biggest talking points surrounding McInnes’ appointment was how quickly Hearts allowed the move to happen. While many supporters were surprised the Edinburgh club didn’t put up more resistance, Caldwell believes Hearts’ long-term football strategy may have played a role. “I think Hearts are moving towards a different football philosophy,” he said. “They’ve invested heavily in recruitment and data-led decision making. Derek has his own style of football, so perhaps both sides felt the timing was right.” Success won’t be measured by second place Both Spencer and Caldwell agreed that Rangers supporters will only judge McInnes on one thing—silverware. “At Rangers it’s about winning trophies,” Spencer said. “It’s not about finishing second and saying you’ve had a decent season. Derek understands that because he’s lived it.” Caldwell echoed those sentiments, pointing out how little time modern managers are given to build a team. “Managers don’t get years anymore. They need results quickly. Derek knows the expectations and he’ll have to implement his ideas straight away.” Recruitment key to Rangers’ future The panel also discussed Rangers’ summer transfer plans, with speculation already linking the club to several Scottish Premiership players. While Spencer believes bringing in players who understand the league could help, Caldwell warned that quality must remain the priority. “It doesn’t matter whether players come from Scotland or abroad,” Caldwell said. “You need quality footballers who fit the manager’s system and the culture of the football club.” Drawing on his own experience, Caldwell reflected on the Rangers sides of previous generations. “When I played against Rangers they had outstanding Scottish players mixed with top international footballers. That’s the standard Rangers have to get back to if they want sustained success.” A defining opportunity McInnes has waited years for another opportunity to manage Rangers after previously being linked with the role. Now, he finally gets his chance. With a major squad rebuild expected this summer and pressure to challenge Celtic immediately, both Spencer and Caldwell believe Rangers have appointed a manager capable of handling the responsibility. Whether that belief translates into trophies will ultimately determine how successful the McInnes era becomes. Watch the full discussion The full conversation featuring Scott Bradley, John Spencer and David Caldwell is available now on the SNN Sports Football Podcast, where the panel also discuss Scotland’s World Cup campaign, Steve Clarke’s future, the Messi vs Ronaldo debate and their favourites to lift the World Cup.

June 28, 2026

Wouter Vrancken Targets Premiership Title Challenge After Taking Charge at Hearts

New Hearts head coach Wouter Vrancken has outlined his ambitions after arriving at Tynecastle, insisting his side must aim to challenge Celtic and Rangers at the top of Scottish football. The 47-year-old Belgian has signed a two-year contract with Hearts, replacing Derek McInnes after his move to Rangers earlier this month. Vrancken arrives in Edinburgh following an impressive spell with Belgian side Sint-Truiden, where he guided his hometown club to third place in the Belgian Pro League last season – their highest league finish in 60 years. His achievements earned him Belgium’s Coach of the Year award. The new Hearts boss now takes over a side that narrowly missed out on ending a 66-year wait for the Scottish Premiership title after suffering a final-day defeat to champions Celtic. Speaking for the first time since his appointment, Vrancken made it clear what his objectives are. “[The remit] is to compete with the Glasgow teams and to try to overachieve again and have a good season, try to fight for the top spots.” He believes Hearts have already shown they can compete with Scotland’s traditional powerhouses. “We will fight for the best. They had a smell of the title last year, that’s the nicest thing to play for.” “Everybody wants to play for those spots and we have to try out best to get to the level and get the Hearts I want to see.” “First being as good as possible at this, then we can have another great season.” Hearts Land Highly-Rated Belgian Coach Hearts revealed that Vrancken was attracting interest from several clubs across Europe before choosing the move to Tynecastle, making this his first managerial role outside Belgium. Belgian football consultant and podcaster Scott Coyne believes Hearts have secured one of the continent’s most exciting coaches. “He could have gone to France or Germany and I think he’s picked Hearts because of the Champions League football, because of Edinburgh.” Coyne believes Hearts’ progress last season also played a major role in attracting Vrancken. “I think there’s something about Hearts’ success last season – he sees a template over the next two, three, four years potentially to go and do something really interesting.” What Style of Football Can Hearts Fans Expect? Supporters can expect an attacking, high-energy approach under their new manager. Coyne described Vrancken’s philosophy as one built around aggressive pressing, quick transitions and fluid attacking play. “He likes really direct and fluid football. So think quick transitions, lots of player rotations, an aggressive press, lots of overloads, fluidity in the wing play as well, so his wing-backs and his wingers are going to be out wide a lot.” However, he warned that Vrancken’s adventurous tactics can leave teams exposed defensively. “He might give you defensive headaches sometimes because he’s one of those coaches who does like to go pretty gung-ho. So you will concede some goals playing in a Wouter Vrancken side, but you’ll also score a lot as well.” Coyne also praised Vrancken’s ability to maximise limited resources. “He’s excellent with sides on limited resources, getting them to really punch above their weight, because he creates this environment inside squads that is really tight knit. And he’s just really good at identifying bad apples.” He added that the Belgian is an ideal fit for Hearts’ long-term strategy. “He fits the way Hearts want to play football and the way they’re looking to recruit players.” “He understands the Jamestown model as well because obviously he’s coached against Union Saint-Gilloise with a number of clubs in Belgium over the past few years.” A Manager on the Rise After beginning his playing career with Sint-Truiden, Vrancken went on to represent Gent, Genk and Mechelen before moving into management. His coaching breakthrough came at Mechelen, where he guided the club to promotion and Belgian Cup success in the same season before delivering three consecutive top-eight league finishes. At Genk, he came agonisingly close to winning the Belgian title during a dramatic three-way battle with Royal Antwerp and Union Saint-Gilloise in 2022. Following a spell at Gent, Vrancken returned to Sint-Truiden in April last year, initially steering the club away from relegation before transforming them into genuine title challengers. His side eventually secured third place and qualified for the Europa League for the first time in the club’s history. Big Rebuild Awaits at Tynecastle Vrancken inherits a Hearts squad undergoing significant change. Captain and Scotland striker Lawrence Shankland has already departed for Rangers, joining former Hearts boss Derek McInnes at Ibrox. Midfielder Beni Beningime has left following the expiry of his contract, while Cammy Devlin has yet to decide on a new deal. Questions also remain over the future of veteran Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon. Defenders Michael Steinwender and Frankie Kent have also moved on, while Craig Halkett faces a spell on the sidelines through injury. Reports have also linked reigning Scottish Player of the Year Claudio Braga and winger Alexandros Kyziridis with potential transfers away from the club. The departures are part of Hearts’ ongoing recruitment model alongside Jamestown Analytics, which focuses on identifying emerging talent, developing players and generating profit through future sales. To strengthen the squad, Hearts have already completed seven signings this summer. Among them are Scottish-based wingers Calvin Miller, who joins from Falkirk, and Josh McPake from St Johnstone. With Champions League qualifying fixtures also on the horizon, Vrancken has little time to mould his new-look squad as Hearts look to build on last season’s remarkable title challenge.

June 28, 2026