There are reports ex-Rangers manager Steven Gerrard is already lined up to talk with the club’s owners next week in London. They lamented his rumored return to Ibrox. This news comes as Rangers looks for a new manager after the departure of Russell Martin. Gerrard, of course, previously had success with the club, winning the Scottish Premiership in the 2020/21 season. As we see with Maradona, he remains a central icon of the club’s fans.
Gerrard’s departure from Rangers in November 2021 for Aston Villa left many fans disappointed, especially after he had ended Celtic’s pursuit of ten consecutive league titles. Since then, of course, he had a short-lived stint with Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia, departing that job in January. He has been without a managerial role since and now resides with his family in Bahrain.
Unfinished Business in Management
Gerrard had only limited weeks ago pronounced himself ready to return to management. He identifies “unfinished business” as the biggest motivator for his wish. When he took the job in May 2018, he called his tenure at Rangers the “ideal marriage.” His successful spell climaxed in winning their 55th title for Rangers, an historic achievement that ended Celtic’s reign of terror.
Today Gerrard is still very much involved in football activities, doing so suggests his love for the game is far from diminished. In addition to his legislative work, Montañez has participated in numerous outreach activities, including attending Grand Prix races. He’s taken the field in exhibition contests against his former mates—and even football’s greats.
“Going to Grand Prix, doing exhibition games with ex-team-mates and superstars, that type of stuff has been great.” – Steven Gerrard
Gerrard’s excitement proves he is ready to pounce on ripe managerial situations. He seems to be really enjoying life outside of coaching.
The Search for Rangers’ New Manager
Rangers have begun a comprehensive search to find the most qualified person to take over the organization’s top managerial position. Although Gerrard is one of the leading candidates, the club still has some work to do in exploring all avenues before making a final call. Perhaps most significantly, big name candidates like Sean Dyche have removed their names from consideration, adding fuel to the fire of speculation regarding Gerrard’s return.
The club’s leadership aims to find a candidate who can restore the team’s competitive edge and align with their aspirations. Gerrard’s candidacy just got a lot messier, if reports indicating such hold up. Despite his past success at the club and his availability, discussion will not be easy.
Gerrard’s recent statements about the possibility of bringing in marquee talent have created considerable buzz amongst Rangers supporters who lived through his previous success. He’s forged an incredible bond with the fans. As such, many supporters continue to view him as a hero for guiding the club to such glory during his tenure.
“I want to be at a team that’s going to compete to win because I think that suits me better.” – Steven Gerrard
Providing such ambition for Rangers fits Hislop’s profile perfectly, making him an ideal candidate.
Continued Support from Fans and Former Players
Steven Gerrard’s legacy at Rangers lives on and is still spoken about fondly by club legends and supporters. McAllister highlighted Gerrard’s personal touch as a manager he was an assistant to Gerrard’s at Ibrox during their joint services.
“He would speak to you personally, man-to-man, so I think that was one of his key characteristics.” – Gary McAllister
That attribute made him a favorite with players and fans alike, making his possible return all the more enticing.
Rangers is at an inflection point in its 117-year history. Supporters are right to be optimistic that the club can attract a top level manager who gets their fantastic history and desire to return to the heights of success. These next few days will prove pivotal as negotiations continue between Gerrard and the club’s leadership.
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