Clement’s remarks, made after the comfortable win over Ross County, centered around a comparison between Rangers and Tottenham, as well as their Scottish rivals Celtic. Instead of focusing on tactics or team spirit, he unexpectedly referenced the financial aspects of the clubs, including budgets and resources, which many fans found awkward and unnecessary ahead of such high-stakes fixtures.

Clement’s comment drew immediate criticism, with many interpreting it as an admission of inferiority rather than a rallying cry for his players. By focusing on financial differences rather than tactical preparations or motivation, the Rangers boss appeared to downplay his team’s chances in the upcoming matches against the likes of Tottenham and Celtic, leaving fans questioning his mindset ahead of such crucial games.

Clement’s choice to highlight financial disparity rather than focusing on the strength of his team comes across as a preemptive defense mechanism. By framing the match in terms of resources rather than tactical approach or player performance, he seems to be deflecting pressure and setting up an excuse should things go wrong. For Rangers supporters, hearing their manager lean on financial limitations ahead of such a crucial contest against Celtic only adds to the feeling of unease about the club’s chances under his leadership.

The irony of Clement’s comments didn’t go unnoticed, especially given that his team had just triumphed over a Ross County side working with a much smaller budget. It highlights the stark contrast in approach between Rangers and Celtic. While Celtic’s success is rooted in effectively managing resources and building a strong, sustainable club, Clement’s remarks seem to suggest a mindset more focused on excuses than on leveraging what’s available. The difference in their strategies is becoming more apparent, and for many, it underscores why Celtic continue to thrive while Rangers seem to be struggling with their priorities.

Clement’s remarks, while possibly intended to lower expectations ahead of Thursday’s Europa League match against Tottenham, feel out of place when talking about the upcoming League Cup final against Celtic. A cup final is the stage where confidence and belief in one’s squad should be at the forefront, not an acknowledgment of financial disparity. Instead of focusing on limitations, Clement’s focus should be on galvanizing his team for what is arguably one of their most significant fixtures of the season.

Celtic, as always, will approach the League Cup final with the professionalism and focus it demands, fully aware that anything can happen in a one-off game at Hampden. However, Clement’s early talk of financial limitations doesn’t exactly instill much belief in his own team or their supporters. It almost seems like a pre-emptive excuse, as though he’s already preparing for defeat. When the final kicks off next Sunday, though, there will be no room for talk of budgets—just two teams and two passionate fan bases giving everything to claim the trophy.

For Celtic supporters, Clement’s comments only reinforce the growing sense of a defeatist mentality creeping into Ibrox. As Ange Postecoglou often emphasized during his time at Celtic, success isn’t about focusing on what you lack—it’s about making the most of what you have. It’s an attitude that has served Celtic well, and perhaps Clement would do well to take that mindset on board as he prepares for the challenge ahead.