Steven Gerrard continues to be strongly linked with a return to Rangers. The 44-year-old famously guided the club to an unbeaten Scottish Premiership title in the 2020/21 season during his first managerial role. However, his later spells at Aston Villa and Saudi club Al-Ettifaq have been less successful.
Speculation around his return to Ibrox has intensified following news that Gerrard has pulled out of an upcoming event. His former Liverpool teammate Djibril Cissé revealed on Instagram (20 May) that Gerrard will no longer attend the Auxerre Legends v Cissé Legends match on 27 May, citing “professional reasons”—a detail that has fueled rumours of his imminent return to Govan.
Gerrard has been mentioned as a possible successor to interim boss Barry Ferguson for several months, and this latest development could indicate that a move is close.
That said, a return to Rangers would present a very different challenge this time around. The club is no longer in the position of strength it held during Gerrard’s previous tenure and now lags significantly behind Brendan Rodgers’ dominant Celtic side. The Ibrox outfit faces a crucial summer overhaul, with major changes needed across the squad.
Appointing the right manager is vital if Rangers are to narrow the gap with their rivals. Gerrard’s familiarity with the club and his ability to inspire players could provide a much-needed morale boost. His dynamic, high-pressing 4-3-3 system also aligns with the demand for more attacking football at Ibrox.
However, despite his past success, a return would not be without risk. Rangers must carefully weigh their options before reappointing Gerrard, as the wrong decision could further hinder their efforts to reclaim domestic dominance.
