Rangers may announce a new manager within hours, with mounting speculation suggesting Steven Gerrard is now the preferred choice of the club’s board.
Gerrard famously led Rangers to the Scottish Premiership title in 2021 during his first stint at Ibrox, though some supporters still feel uneasy about how he left for Aston Villa.
Currently without a club, Gerrard is the clear front-runner to succeed as Rangers boss, and reports indicate a decision could be made as early as Wednesday, 21 May.
Despite that, there are a few obstacles to overcome—Gerrard is still based in the Middle East following his time in charge of Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq.
The potential return has sparked mixed reactions.
Keith Jackson expresses doubts over Gerrard’s return
While Gerrard’s past success with Rangers gives him an edge over other candidates like Davide Ancelotti—who lacks first-team managerial experience—not everyone is sold on the idea.
Journalist Keith Jackson shared his changing view on the situation. “I have to admit, I was starting to think this made sense about an hour ago,” he told the Daily Record on 20 May. “But after learning more, I’m now far less convinced.”
One of the major issues reportedly holding things up is the difficulty of persuading Gerrard’s family to relocate back to the UK, which could derail the move altogether.
Gerrard could still be the right fit
Although Ancelotti generated buzz among fans, his lack of senior managerial experience remains a concern. Gerrard, on the other hand, not only knows the club but has also previously delivered silverware.
If given the proper support, there’s no reason he couldn’t replicate that success.
While some fans still feel bitter about how Gerrard left the club, his time abroad may have shown him that leaving Ibrox didn’t necessarily lead to greener pastures.
