Rangers Football Club is in the midst of a seismic shift. In the next few weeks, a US consortium led by Andrew Cavenagh, that features the San Francisco 49ers’ investment arm 49ers Enterprises, will take a 51 percent controlling stake in the club. This announcement coincides with the Scottish Premiership’s opening weekend of the new season on August 2/3. In the midst of these changes, Steven Gerrard will not return as the next manager of Rangers, raising questions about who will fill the managerial vacancy.
Gerrard’s leaving, in other words, marks something about the end of an era at Rangers. He had taken the side to their record 55th top-flight title in 2021. During his tenure, he had an incredible run. The onus is now on the club to appoint a new figurehead as they build towards their first training camp at St George’s Park, which begins on July 7. The first of those scheduled friendly matches is on July 26th against Middlesbrough at Ibrox.
Managerial Candidates
As New York Rangers looks for its next permanent manager, a number of names are being bandied about. This leads us to the first and obvious candidate, Davide Ancelotti. These are the kind of conversations he’s kicked off with the club during his quest to land his first managerial gig.
“Davide is thinking [about] what to do for the future.” – Carlo Ancelotti
Other names have been mooted as potential candidates – including Danny Rohl, Brian Priske, Rob Edwards and Gary O’Neil. Russell Martin, who was originally signed by the Rangers in 2018, is once again in the mix. He has been actively talking to the club.
Carlo Ancelotti commented on his son’s pursuit of a managerial role, stating:
“He’s in talks with other clubs as he tries to be first coach, and he knows if he doesn’t find the opportunity, he will be here with me.” – Carlo Ancelotti
Rangers have been proactive, working to produce a wide range of options. This tactic makes sure they are able to schedule an appointment right away.
The Impending US Takeover
The approaching majority ownership by the Cavenagh-led consortium has ushered in a wave of hope around Ibrox. Unlike some takeovers that require inviting new management and waiting for official takeover completion before any managerial appointment can occur, as the club gears up for its new season, stakeholders are eager to see how this change in ownership will influence operations both on and off the pitch.
The new partnership with 49ers Enterprises further indicates the club’s commitment to innovation and investment in the club’s future. As they prepare for the upcoming season, fans are hopeful that this new partnership will lead to success in Scottish football.
Looking Ahead
Supporters are watching closely as the countdown continues towards the announcement of fixtures for this new and exciting season on June 20. Adding to that excitement, live coverage will stream on Sky Sports News. The important upcoming training camp and friendly matches will provide a vital opportunity to focus squad cohesion.
Rangers is still trying to find its way through a transition period. After all, their number one priority is to continue a successful run and face the next challenges head-on. Ownership changes and a new managerial appointment are revitalizing the club. This has the potential to herald a new dawn for one of Scotland’s most famous football institutions.
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