Rangers Could Make a Smart Financial Move by Appointing Gary O’Neil
With Barry Ferguson expected to depart once his interim spell at Ibrox concludes, Rangers may have the opportunity to save a significant sum by turning to former Wolves and Bournemouth boss Gary O’Neil as their next permanent manager.
The club’s anticipated takeover by the San Francisco 49ers group is nearing completion, and they reportedly aim to install a new manager once their majority ownership is secured.
O’Neil an Ideal Fit for Rangers
Gary O’Neil stands out as a strong candidate due to his top-level managerial experience, tactical flexibility, and current availability — which would come at no compensation cost.
Following his dismissal by Wolves in December 2024, O’Neil left behind a respectable 14th-place finish in the 2023/24 Premier League, with impressive victories against the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City, and Tottenham. These results underscore his ability to go toe-to-toe with elite sides.
At Bournemouth, he previously showcased his ability to steady a ship in turmoil, guiding them to Premier League safety in the 2022/23 campaign during a six-game unbeaten run as interim manager. That kind of stabilising presence could be vital at Ibrox, especially after Rangers finished well behind Celtic in the title race.
As a former Premier League midfielder with 214 appearances and experience in the Championship, O’Neil also brings the leadership and resilience needed to handle the pressure of the Rangers job.
According to The Telegraph, O’Neil is reportedly one of several names under consideration for the role.
Why O’Neil Edges Out Rohl
Unlike Sheffield Wednesday boss Danny Rohl — another candidate on the radar — O’Neil offers proven experience at the highest level. Rohl’s promising high-pressing tactics have drawn attention, but his managerial résumé is limited to the EFL Championship, and his current contract runs until 2027, meaning Rangers would face a £5 million compensation bill to secure him.
In contrast, hiring the unattached O’Neil would avoid those expenses, freeing up resources for much-needed investment in the squad — a key factor as the club prepares for a new ownership era with financial limitations.
O’Neil’s mix of Premier League credibility, tactical intelligence, and affordability makes him a standout choice to help Rangers reclaim domestic dominance. With ambitions of winning silverware, the Gers could give him the perfect platform to achieve success.
