Rangers and 49ers Enterprises Identify Preferred Managerial Target for 2025/26 Season
The Rangers and 49ers Enterprises have set their sights on a new managerial appointment at Ibrox ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
49ers Move Closer to Rangers Takeover
The year 2025 has been a period of significant change for Rangers, both on and off the pitch. Following the dismissal of Philippe Clement, former club captain Barry Ferguson was appointed as interim manager for the remainder of the season.
Meanwhile, off the field, the 49ers Enterprises have agreed in principle to acquire a controlling 51% stake in the club. Key figures behind the prospective takeover include health insurance tycoon Andrew Cavenagh and Leeds United chairman Paraag Marathe. Discussions have been ongoing since October, and all parties remain optimistic that the deal will be finalized before the new season kicks off.
As part of their vision for the club, Rangers and the 49ers are keen to secure a permanent managerial appointment, with several names being considered. Candidates linked to the role include Kilmarnock’s Derek McInnes and former Huddersfield Town boss David Wagner. However, the latest reports suggest that Rafael Benitez has emerged as the leading candidate.
Benitez Tops Rangers’ Wishlist
According to The Chronicle Live, citing The Daily Record, sources close to Rangers confirm that Benitez is being seriously considered as the club’s preferred managerial option.
The 64-year-old, who has been without a club for a year, has been widely praised for his managerial expertise. Former Everton boss Sam Allardyce previously described him as “excellent.” Benitez has made it clear that he is actively seeking a return to management and was recently close to accepting a move to Brazilian club Botafogo. However, he ultimately turned it down, citing the distance and family considerations.
Reflecting on his options, Benitez stated:
“I have had a lot of offers during the year. But I was always waiting for the Premier League because it’s the league that I like. You have to choose the right opportunity and hopefully, it will come soon.”
Benitez, known for his structured 4-4-2 system, has never managed in Scotland before. However, if the 49ers have their way, that could soon change. With their takeover nearing completion and their managerial plans taking shape, Rangers fans could be in for a new era at Ibrox.
