Rangers v Celtic always defines seasons, reputations and legacies. For Danny Rohl, it is the match that could stamp his authority on this Rangers side and prove that his revolution has real weight. The German coach has already injected new belief into a broken dressing room, but this is the one that matters. The chance for players to become heroes is right there in front of them, and the potential Rangers XI for this match looks bold, balanced and ready.
Defence
Jack Butland’s leadership and consistency remain vital for Rohl’s setup. Behind him stands a reshaped defence that finally has structure and steel. James Tavernier and Jayden Meghoma will start as the wingbacks, both offering energy and precision. John Souttar could partner Derek Cornelius and Nasser Djiga in the centre, forming a trio that can defend and build from the back with authority. It feels calm now, and for once, Rangers might have a back line capable of matching Celtic’s pace and power.
Rohl’s training sessions have focused heavily on shape and discipline. The line moves together, the structure stays tight and mistakes have dropped sharply. That composure under pressure will decide how much control Rangers have in this showdown. The back line looks drilled, confident and ready for the biggest test yet.
Midfield
The midfield tells its own story. With Connor Barron suspended, Mohamed Diomandé steps up beside Nicolas Raskin. The duo offers drive, creativity and bite. Raskin’s resurgence under Rohl has been one of the coach’s best early successes. Raskin’s energy will press Celtic’s midfield constantly, while Diomandé links play with quiet confidence.
The blend works. Each player knows their role, and the pressing patterns have become a trademark of Rohl’s system. The midfield has to dominate early, forcing Celtic to chase the game. If that happens, Rangers will grow into every minute that follows. Rangers.co.uk’s preview captured the same intensity that fans expect to see.
Attack
Up front, Danilo and Miovski are supported by Aasgard, because Moore struggled badly at Easter Road. Chermiti was poor. Some modification from midfield is ideal. TeamTalk’s report noted how Rohl’s coaching has sharpened several of these attacking options, and it shows. The quality in depth now looks a bit like what Rangers fans have demanded for months. The Guardian’s coverage underlined how far this side has evolved under Rohl’s direction.
Rangers v Celtic needs more than skill; it needs hunger. This XI feels like it has both. Rohl knows his moment has arrived, and this match could finally ignite the fire that turns potential into silverware. The Rangers v Celtic fixture is always fierce, but this time, it could mark the true start of something special.
So your Ibrox Noise predicted XI:
(3-4-1-2
Butland: Djiga, Souttar, Cornelius; Tavernier, Raskin, Diomande, Mehgoma; Aasgaard; Danilo, Miovski