Former Rangers manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst has released a statement following his sacking by the Ibrox club on Monday, in which he claimed he faced ‘unique challenges’ and had to operate in ‘very difficult circumstances’.
Posting on his Instagram account the Dutchman said: “The opportunity to manage an institution like Rangers FC is a privilege which very few are afforded. As a former player, I understood the responsibility and magnitude of the task.”
“My backroom team and I worked with energy, passion and were driven with a belief that we could achieve amazing things. We treated our roles with respect, optimism and determination. We experienced some incredible highs, especially on our European journey to Seville. Winning the Scottish Cup for the first time in over a decade and qualifying for the group stage of the Champions League is something I am very proud of.”
The former Gers player went on to praise the Ibrox support, adding: “The passion of our support drove us on to achieve those wonderful memories. For that, I am forever grateful to every single one of you who travelled near and far, spent your hard-earned money, and never gave up supporting our team.”
“This season, like every year at Rangers, the first priority is domestic success. I understand the hurt when wins become draws, and worse, when we experience defeat. That isn’t acceptable at a club of Rangers standing, no one understood that and felt that more than I did. I faced unique challenges and some very difficult circumstances to operate in.”
He signed off with a message for the Govan faithful, saying: “Rangers FC will always be in my heart and I wish the club all the success for the future. Once a Ranger, always a Ranger.”
