The gap between Celtic and Rangers has been a frequent topic of discussion this season, particularly after Celtic’s dominant 3-0 victory in the Glasgow Derby.
That result, along with Celtic’s superior financial muscle and transfer spending, has reignited the debate over how far apart the two clubs really are.
For many observers, the idea that the gap is even a point of debate is puzzling, though some, like Graeme Souness, have voiced a different opinion.
Souness recently claimed that the difference between the two rivals is not as large as it seems. However, this view contrasts sharply with that of Rangers’ former chairman, Dave King, who has been unequivocal in stating that Celtic are miles ahead, both on and off the pitch.
Now, Rangers’ interim chairman John Gilligan has weighed in, giving a more measured assessment of the situation. Speaking at his first press conference since stepping into the role after John Bennett’s departure, Gilligan was pragmatic about where the two clubs currently stand.
Gilligan, aware of the realities facing his club, said via Football Scotland: “History tells you that happens. Sometimes we are ahead, sometimes Celtic are ahead. At the moment we are chasing. There is no argument there, I am not stupid enough to say otherwise. But we will keep chasing.
“Player trading is the biggest success and qualification for the Champions League. It is a kind of Catch 22 – player trading gets you income, Champions League gets you income.
“When you fail to get it, it is difficult because Scottish football’s level of support, TV, sponsorship etc, you just can’t compare it to England’s. So it is always a challenge, of course it is. It is all about the squad and bringing in players and winning your matches and moving forward.”
The gap between the two clubs is increasingly stark. With Celtic sitting five points clear at the top of the league and continuing to look formidable with each passing game, it’s hard to envision anyone, Rangers included, stopping them on the pitch this season.
Off the pitch, as discussed by 67 Hail Hail, Celtic’s player trading model and the financial boost from Champions League participation have placed them on a different level to Rangers.
Even though Celtic have already broken their transfer record twice this summer, manager Brendan Rodgers has the financial backing to further strengthen the squad, should he wish, come January.
Rangers, in contrast, find themselves without Champions League revenue or a host of sellable assets. This suggests that the financial and sporting gap between the two clubs might not just be a short-term issue. In fact, it could take years before Rangers get anywhere close to challenging Celtic again, both on and off the field.