Rangers Eyeing Champions League-Winning Manager Rafa Benitez for Permanent Role
Rangers are reportedly considering an ambitious move to appoint Champions League-winning manager Rafael Benitez as their new permanent boss.
Following Philippe Clement’s dismissal on 23 February, club legend Barry Ferguson has taken over as interim manager, supported by fellow Ibrox icons Alan McGregor, Billy Dodds, and Neil McCann. Clement’s departure followed back-to-back home defeats to Queen’s Park in the Scottish Cup and St Mirren in the Premiership, and Ferguson’s tenure began with a 2-1 loss to Motherwell at Ibrox.
Despite struggles in domestic competitions, Rangers showed promise in the Europa League under Clement. With that tournament now their only remaining shot at silverware, the club is keen to bring in a manager with strong European experience this summer.
Benitez ‘Under Consideration’ by Incoming Rangers Owners
Regardless of how Rangers finish the current campaign, it seems unlikely that Ferguson will be given the job on a permanent basis, particularly with 49ers Enterprises set to take control at Ibrox.
According to a report from The Daily Record on 5 March, the incoming ownership group—led by Paraag Marathe and Andrew Cavenagh—is “considering” appointing Benitez, who previously managed Liverpool and Real Madrid. The report also suggests the new hierarchy intends to start discussions with potential managerial candidates in the coming weeks.
Can Rangers Persuade Benitez to Take Over?
Although Benitez is currently holding out for a return to the Premier League, a move to Rangers could provide him with the perfect opportunity to rebuild his reputation and compete for trophies.
The Spaniard has an impressive track record, having won La Liga twice with Valencia and securing Champions League glory with Liverpool in 2005. However, his career has also seen setbacks, including a divisive spell at Chelsea and his dismissal from Everton in 2022. His most recent role at Celta Vigo ended in disappointment nearly a year ago, making a return to a top-flight English club unlikely in the near future.
With the 49ers Enterprises eager to restore a winning mentality at Ibrox and challenge Celtic’s domestic dominance, Benitez’s ambition to return to the top could align perfectly with Rangers’ goals. Winning the Premiership title with the Glasgow giants could be an attractive prospect for the experienced coach.
