When Rangers Football Club dismissed Russell Martin on October 5, 2025, after just four chaotic months, the Ibrox faithful didn’t just want a new manager—they wanted someone who understood the weight of the jersey. Enter Derek McInnes, the 54-year-old architect of Heart of Midlothian FC’s stunning 2025-26 Scottish Premiership campaign. And yet, despite rumors swirling that Rangers had approached him, McInnes has made it clear: he’s not leaving Tynecastle. Not now. Not unless Hearts say so.
Why McInnes Is the Unlikely Favorite
It’s not just his results. Though Hearts sit top of the league with 19 points from seven games—six wins, one draw, 16 goals for, only six conceded—it’s what he’s done against Rangers that’s echoing through Glasgow. In August, his side stunned Ibrox with a 2-0 win, a result marred by controversy over refereeing calls that still rankle Rangers fans. But here’s the twist: McInnes played for Rangers himself. From 1995 to 2000, he made 34 appearances as a combative midfielder. He knows the pressure, the noise, the history. He’s not some outsider. He’s a ghost from their past who’s now haunting them.
That’s why Dick Advocaat, the Dutchman who managed Rangers from 1998 to 2001, didn’t hesitate to weigh in. Speaking to The Scottish Sun and confirmed by Sky Sports on October 8, 2025, Advocaat called McInnes “a real professional as a player” and added, “Rangers will pick the right candidate.” It’s a subtle endorsement—but in Scottish football, where loyalty runs deep and reputations are carved in stone, that’s louder than a full-throated roar.
The Hearts Standoff
Here’s the reality: Heart of Midlothian FC isn’t just holding onto McInnes—they’re clinging to him. According to Hearts Standard on October 7, 2025, McInnes has had talks with the Hearts board, and the message was unambiguous: he has no desire to leave. That’s not just PR. It’s strategic. Hearts are unbeaten in seven games, scoring 16 goals and allowing only six. Their expected goals (xG) of 10.9 suggest they’re not just lucky—they’re building something sustainable. Losing McInnes now would be like tearing out the engine mid-race.
And the board knows it. As Ibrox News reported on October 8, 2025, Hearts’ leadership is “comfortable with the situation should that change”—a diplomatic way of saying: We’re not giving him up unless you break the bank and the law. Rangers, meanwhile, have yet to make a formal offer. The silence speaks volumes.
Advocaat’s Legacy and the Ghosts of Ibrox
Dick Advocaat’s tenure at Rangers (1998–2001) wasn’t just about trophies—he built a culture. He brought discipline, structure, and a European mentality to a club that had drifted into chaos. He knows what happens when you hire a manager without understanding the club’s soul. That’s why his support for McInnes carries weight. He’s not just backing a good coach—he’s backing a man who’s already worn the light blue.
McInnes’s playing career didn’t end at Rangers. He went on to captain West Bromwich Albion Football Club in the 2002-03 Premier League season, a role that sharpened his leadership. Then came Aberdeen, where he spent over a decade (2013–2024), turning them into consistent top-four finishers. Now, in Edinburgh, he’s doing something even harder: building a team that plays with identity, not just results.
What This Means for Rangers
They’re in a bind. Martin’s sacking came after a string of poor performances and fractured dressing room dynamics. The club needs stability, not spectacle. But they also need someone who can command respect from fans who’ve seen it all. McInnes checks every box—experience, pedigree, local roots, tactical nous. Yet, he’s not available. Not yet.
So who’s left? The board is reportedly considering other names, but none have been confirmed. The names floating in the background—like former Celtic assistant manager Barry Robson or ex-Hearts assistant John McGinn—are lesser lights. None carry McInnes’s combination of history, current form, and emotional resonance.
Here’s the thing: if Rangers don’t land McInnes, they risk becoming the club that chased the perfect candidate and lost him to a team that values him more. Hearts aren’t just a rival—they’re a mirror. They’re doing what Rangers once did: building from within, playing with pride, refusing to be bought.
What’s Next?
Rangers can’t wait forever. The next international break ends October 15, 2025. By then, they’ll need a caretaker or a permanent replacement. If McInnes stays put, expect an internal promotion—perhaps assistant coach Brian Rice, who’s been with the club since 2023. Or maybe a surprise from abroad: names like former Lille manager Marcelo Bielsa or ex-PSV boss Roger Schmidt have been whispered, but both are unlikely fits for the Ibrox environment.
One thing’s certain: this isn’t just about who takes the touchline. It’s about who understands the heartbeat of a club that’s been waiting for its soul to return.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Derek McInnes such a strong candidate for Rangers despite not wanting to leave Hearts?
McInnes is a former Rangers player (1995–2000), has proven success managing Aberdeen and Hearts, and led Hearts to a 2-0 win over Rangers in August 2025. His tactical discipline, leadership, and deep understanding of the club’s culture make him ideal—even if he’s currently content at Tynecastle. Advocaat’s public endorsement underscores his credibility among Rangers legends.
Has Rangers officially offered McInnes the job?
No. As of October 8, 2025, Ibrox News confirmed Rangers had not made a formal approach. While talks with McInnes reportedly occurred, no contract offer has been extended. Hearts’ board has indicated they’d only consider a move if a substantial offer emerged, suggesting McInnes’s value is both emotional and financial.
How has McInnes performed at Hearts in 2025-26?
As of October 8, 2025, McInnes has led Hearts to 19 points from seven games (6 wins, 1 draw), scoring 16 goals and conceding just 6. Their expected goals (xG) of 10.9 and xGA of 6.3 show they’re not just lucky—they’re outplaying opponents. They’re the only unbeaten team in the Scottish Premiership, making McInnes the league’s most successful manager this season.
Why did Russell Martin get sacked after only four months?
Rangers cited a “tumultuous four months” in their October 5, 2025 statement, though no specifics were given. Reports suggest internal tensions, inconsistent performances, and a lack of connection with fans after a poor start to the season. A 2-0 home loss to Hearts in August, coupled with a 3-1 defeat to St. Mirren, sealed his fate. The board wanted a reset—and fast.
Could McInnes ever return to Rangers in the future?
Absolutely. His history with the club makes him a natural long-term fit. If Hearts continue to thrive under him, a future move might be framed as a homecoming rather than a defection. Rangers fans would welcome him with open arms—especially if he delivers a league title. But for now, he’s building something special in Edinburgh.
What’s the significance of Dick Advocaat’s endorsement?
Advocaat isn’t just any former manager—he led Rangers to domestic dominance and a UEFA Cup final in 2000. His word carries weight with the board and fans alike. By backing McInnes, he’s signaling that the club needs someone with character, not just credentials. It’s a quiet but powerful nudge toward tradition over trend.
Written by Caspian Beauchamp
Hello, I'm Caspian Beauchamp, a sports enthusiast with a strong passion for rugby. I've been following the sport for years, and I've gained extensive knowledge about its history, rules, and strategies. My love for rugby has led me to write informative and engaging articles that cater to both die-hard fans and newcomers alike. I enjoy analyzing matches, discussing players' performances, and sharing my insights with fellow rugby lovers. My ultimate goal is to spread the excitement of the game and help people appreciate the beauty of this incredible sport.
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