Rangers now have the loneliest player in the world after Kevin Thelwell exit news at Ibrox
Youssef Chermiti has been placed in a difficult position at Rangers after the man who brought him to Ibrox was dismissed in disgrace.
CEO Patrick Stewart and sporting director Thelwell were sacked by Rangers on Monday, with fans finally getting their wish of seeing the duo depart.
Months of disgruntlement had turned toxic at Ibrox, with both men confronted by fans on several occasions as anger built.
In the summer, Rangers signed Chermiti from Everton in a deal worth around £10m, with the striker previously having spent time on Merseyside with Thelwell.
But Chermiti has struggled at Rangers since arriving, scoring just one goal in his 13 appearances across all competitions.
Rangers without option on Youssef Chermiti signing
Rangers are considering a January loan move for Chermiti, such has the striker has struggled to adapt to life in the Scottish Premiership.
After scoring against Kilmarnock last month, the 21-year-old looked to have turned a corner, providing an assist in the following game.
| Youssef Chermiti | Scottish Premiership 2025-26 |
| Appearances | 7 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Chances created | 3 |
| Dribble success % | 16.7% |
| Duels won % | 39.2% |
But the Portugal youth international was woeful in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Celtic, and has failed to impress in any game since.
As Rangers beat Livingston on Saturday, Chermiti was absent from the squad after receiving a knock while on international duty.
But blame should not be directed at the striker himself. It was Thelwell who was allowed to spend the absurd amount of money it took to buy the 21-year-old, a decision that has undoubtedly played into the decision to dismiss him.
With the sporting director now allowed to slip out of the back door, the Gers are stuck with their big-money signing, who now remains on a lonely four-year contract with his biggest backer gone.
What did Kevin Thelwell say about Chermiti?
Speaking following the appointment of Danny Rohl, Thelwell was asked if he remained behind the signing of Chermiti.
“Very much so,” he said. “I think Youssef Chermiti is a player, in particular, who’s got huge potential. I’ve never doubted him in any way, shape, or form.
“Again, I think Danny will help to get the best out of Youssef. Very early days with him, he’s a young talent, and of course, with young talents, they sometimes take a little bit of time.
“But I’m certain, over the course of his career here, he’s going to prove that he’s a very good player.“
There is truth to what Thelwell said. It is early days, and Chermiti is a young striker, but Rangers are yet to see that talent take any shape.
And with such a sizable price tag hanging over his head, the pressure that has been left on the 21-year-old by Thelwell is mighty.
One thing is for certain, he will be feeling very lonely right now.
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