Rangers fans, it's time to get excited – and Thelo Aasgaard is here to tell you why. The Norwegian midfielder believes the team's rocky start under former manager Russell Martin has forged an unbreakable bond among the players, setting the stage for a miraculous title challenge. But here's where it gets controversial: can a team that was once written off as dead and buried truly rise to become Scottish champions? Let’s dive in.
As of 23 January 2026, Aasgaard, who’s been in top form, stops short of saying 'what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,' but it’s a sentiment that perfectly captures Rangers’ Premiership journey so far. Under Martin, the Ibrox club’s title hopes seemed buried, with the team languishing in the bottom half of the table, out of the Champions League, and struggling in Europe. But new manager Danny Rohl has orchestrated a stunning turnaround, and Aasgaard is convinced the best is yet to come.
The Norway international argues that the trials under Martin brought the players closer together, fostering a resilience that’s now paying dividends. 'We’ve been through some tough patches,' Aasgaard admits, 'but that’s made us stronger.' And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about results; it’s about the mindset. Aasgaard senses an unbreakable camaraderie in the dressing room, one that could propel them to the top.
Take Thursday night’s 1-0 win against Ludogorets, for example. Mohamed Diomande’s goal wasn’t just a victory – it was the seventh win in a row for Rohl’s side and their first European win of the season, ending a nine-game drought. Aasgaard played a crucial role in the winner, and now his focus shifts to domestic duties, starting with Dundee on Sunday. With title rivals Hearts and Celtic facing off, this weekend could be a game-changer – a far cry from just a few months ago when a title race seemed like a distant dream.
But Aasgaard is adamant: 'Coming through adversity has been the making of this team.' He points to the growing confidence among the players and the solid mindset they’ve developed. 'We’re a real group, even off the pitch,' he says. And here’s a bold statement: could this unity be the secret weapon that clinches the title?
It’s not just the team that’s transformed; individual players once written off by fans are now thriving. Aasgaard himself, a £3 million signing from Luton Town, initially struggled to adapt to Scottish football. But with four goals in his last six games, he’s becoming a key player for Rohl. 'I’m settled off the pitch now,' he says, 'and it’s showing in my performances.'
The arrival of new signings like Andreas Skov Olsen and Tochi Chukwuani has also raised the bar. 'The competition for places has lifted everyone’s game,' Aasgaard notes. But is this enough to take Rangers to the next level? And can they maintain this momentum until May?
Despite their Europa League exit, Thursday’s win was a step in the right direction. Aasgaard was thrilled with the clean sheet but echoed Rohl’s call for improvement in front of goal. 'We need to be better in the final third,' he admits. So, here’s the question: can Rangers turn their defensive solidity into a goal-scoring masterclass?
As Super Sunday approaches, all eyes are on Tynecastle, where Hearts and Celtic will clash. But Aasgaard insists Rangers must focus on their own game against Dundee. 'We have to take care of our business,' he says. And this is where it gets thought-provoking: in a league where every point matters, can Rangers keep their cool and stay consistent?
So, what do you think? Is Aasgaard’s optimism justified, or is Rangers’ title challenge still a long shot? Let us know in the comments – and don’t hold back!
