Rangers are preparing for a hectic period as the club undergoes a takeover by American investors and begins the search for a new director of football and first-team manager.
Following a disappointing domestic campaign, which is likely to end with Celtic securing their sixth treble in nine seasons—a bitter pill for anyone connected with Ibrox—the current Rangers ownership has opted to step aside. Reports this week confirm that 49ers Enterprises, in partnership with Andrew Cavenagh, has struck a deal to acquire a 51% controlling stake in the club.
Before the club names its 20th permanent manager, 49ers executive Gretar Steinsson is focused on appointing a sporting director, a key move in a broader leadership overhaul.
While speculation has linked Rangers to Kevin Thelwell, a top broadcaster now claims the club is poised to officially confirm his appointment as director of football.
Kevin Thelwell reportedly on the brink of Ibrox appointment
According to Sky Sports, Rangers are “set to name” Everton’s Kevin Thelwell as their new director of football.
Thelwell, 51, began his career as an academy coach with Preston North End and Derby County before moving into senior roles at Wolverhampton Wanderers. He later spent time with New York Red Bulls in the United States before joining Everton, where he’s been for the past three seasons. Earlier this year, he announced his intention to step down at the end of the season.
Sky reports that Rangers have moved swiftly to bring him in, with only a last-minute hitch likely to derail the deal.
The appointment follows a review by Sportsology that recommended filling the director of football role, which has been vacant since Ross Wilson’s departure to Nottingham Forest in 2023. Thelwell’s arrival is expected to be a significant part of Rangers’ new leadership framework, and he will be responsible for reshaping the squad under the club’s new ownership.
Thelwell reflects on his time at Everton
Thelwell’s tenure at Everton drew attention for his ability to work under financial constraints. With a net transfer gain of over £80 million and a wage bill reduced by around £20 million, Thelwell helped the Toffees remain competitive—and most importantly—stay in the Premier League.
Upon announcing his departure from Everton, now also under American ownership via the Friedkin Group, Thelwell shared his thoughts through a statement via the Association of Sporting Directors.
“I believe I leave the club in a significantly better place than when I joined, both on and off the pitch,” he said. “Managing severe financial restrictions has been challenging but necessary to safeguard the club’s future—something I’ve always been upfront about.
“My aim was to tackle immediate hurdles while protecting the long-term health of the club. We’ve reached a more stable financial position and are progressing on the field.
“We’ve had to be resourceful in the transfer market. Despite generating £225 million in player sales over three years, we could only reinvest £145 million across six windows. Although not every decision was perfect, assembling a squad capable of competing at Premier League level, while letting go of key talents, is something I view as a real accomplishment.”
