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BBC Scotland pundit shares 'breathtaking' Rangers financial verdict as money soars
The financial benefit of Rangers being involved in European competition is “breathtaking” compared to past eras, according to Alex McLeish.
As reported by the Scottish Sun (18 September), the BBC Scotland pundit noted the significance of the Gers’ Europa League clashes this season and the growing dependence clubs have on the money international competitions bring in.
Rangers welcome Spanish side Real Betis in their group stage opener on Thursday (21 September) in a showdown McLeish tips will be “tough”.
McLeish said: “These games are really big, especially when you take into consideration the money Rangers have made off these European tournaments over the last four to five years.
“The figures are actually quite breathtaking compared to what they were back in the day. The money has soared ferociously, and it’s become important to all the clubs involved.
“Rangers have had a good run at it in the last three or four years, but Spanish teams are always tough, so it will be difficult on Thursday.”
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Lucrative
While the Rangers hierarchy would have been much more satisfied with the money brought in through Champions League qualification, Rangers’ consistent appearances in European competition have become a significant aspect of their finances.
Each year, the Gers will find themselves in either the Champions League or the Europa League. This year, defeat to PSV in qualifying saw Beale’s men drop down to the secondary UEFA competition, but this may prove significant in the long run.
Many would predict Rangers to crash out of their Champions League group stage, akin to last season’s disaster, but the Europa League offers a much greater chance of progressing into the knockout rounds.
More fixtures means more matchday income, broadcasting income and rewards from UEFA for progressing. According to the Daily Record (6 April), Rangers banked £18.1million from reaching the Europa League final in 2021/22.
While Sheriff Tiraspol earned £20.7million for just being in the Champions League group stages, the financial benefit is clear to see and a huge boost from previous eras of football.
A deep run in the competition this season could right the early wrongs of Beale’s season, but with consistent European qualification, the club will always have a reliable income stream.
In other Rangers news, Michael Beale must progress in Europe to help earn back the £25m lost by missing out on the Champions League