Rangers could be on the verge of a dramatic reunion with Steven Gerrard, as the club concludes its search for a new manager following Barry Ferguson’s interim spell.
Ferguson, the former Scotland international, oversaw his final match in charge during the Gers’ Premiership clash against Hibernian at Easter Road on Saturday, 17 May.
Club figures Patrick Stewart and Kevin Thelwell are spearheading the managerial hunt and reportedly have Gerrard among their top candidates.
With preparations already underway for the upcoming campaign, Rangers have entered the closing phase of appointing a permanent head coach.
Gerrard seen as top candidate to return to Ibrox
According to the Daily Mail (19 May), Gerrard has emerged as the leading contender for the role. Rangers are said to be targeting a manager with previous first-team experience, especially after Real Madrid assistant Davide Ancelotti surfaced as another name of interest.
The report suggests the Liverpool legend could make a “sensational” return to Ibrox once the club’s takeover by American investors is finalized.
Gerrard, who most recently managed Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq, remains the last boss to guide Rangers to the Scottish Premiership title.
Mixed fan response to Gerrard’s potential return
Many believe Gerrard could bring stability after a string of disappointing managerial appointments, with his previous tenure highlighted by ending the club’s decade-long title drought.
However, since his departure to Villa, Celtic have reclaimed dominance in the Premiership under Brendan Rodgers—a streak Gerrard may be viewed as the man to end.
With the imminent arrival of new ownership under Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises, the urgency to challenge Celtic immediately has intensified. Patience among the Rangers support is thin, and there’s little appetite for another long-term rebuild.
Despite Gerrard’s prior success, some fans remain skeptical due to the financial outlay required during his first stint. His close association with Michael Beale, who worked alongside him at Rangers, Villa, and Al-Ettifaq, may also dampen enthusiasm for a return.
Whether the 44-year-old returns to the Ibrox dugout remains to be seen, especially considering his underwhelming record since leaving Glasgow.
