Exclusive: Ally McCoist expects Leeds repeat from 49ers as Rangers takeover ‘done’
Ally McCoist has shared his thoughts on the Rangers takeover following 49ers Enterprises’ impact at Leeds United.
The former Gers striker told Football Insider that his old club have been desperate for new investment and leadership, with the current hierarchy facing pressure from the supporters.
During the 3-0 victory over Aberdeen in January, the Union Bears walked out of Ibrox as a sign of protest, against Philippe Clement, who was sacked as Rangers manager, and the boardroom, clearly unhappy with the running of the club.
The Light Blues have only fallen further and further behind their Old Firm rivals, Celtic, on and off the pitch, and McCoist has been a loud advocate for change at Ibrox.
49ers Enterprises closing in on Rangers takeover deal
Fans will need to prepare themselves for a summer of change, with those changes coming from 49ers Enterprises purchasing a 51 per cent stake in Rangers in the coming weeks.
With Steven Gerrard also being linked with an Ibrox return, Barry Ferguson is unlikely to be in charge ahead of next season, with the managerial decision just the tip of the iceberg for potential new owners.
Those potential new owners, 49ers Enterprises, have made an incredible impression at Elland Road after purchasing a controlling stake in Leeds United back in July 2023.
With Daniel Farke about to lead the Whites back to the Premier League, supporters in Yorkshire have become rather fond of their owners, and McCoist looks to be sharing the same excitement.
| Championship standings | Points |
| 1. Leeds United | 76 |
| 2. Sheffield United | 73 |
| 3. Burnley | 71 |
Rangers to following in Leeds United’s footsteps
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, via talkSPORT BET, McCoist said: “The first thing I’ve heard is that the takeover from the American franchise is very much on the cards. In fact, from what I’m hearing, that in principle the deal’s been done but it’s just about due diligence getting done.
“I think it’s great news – it’s been well-documented that the club has needed new investment and new leadership to take us in a new direction. That’s vital. It looks well underway now, and hopefully, it’s done sooner rather than later.
“I’m really excited. It’s been needed for a good while now. We need new leadership and ownership, with people bringing fresh ideas to bring us forward. We’ve alarmingly moved backwards since reaching a European final.
“We also need fresh investment, because the recruitment has been miles short. That needs to be readdressed. The ownership of the American company, who have part ownership of Leeds, I look at Leeds and I like the place they’re in.
“They’ve not come in, splashed the cash and gone crazy overnight. They’ve taken their time, and gradually made changes, and the manager is doing really well. I’m sure Leeds fans are happy with what’s going on. With the same model, thought process, and strategy, the takeover excites me.”