Rangers are preparing to make their first managerial appointment under the anticipated new ownership of Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises.
Dave King recently stated that the takeover at Ibrox is 90% complete, with only a few formalities remaining.
With Barry Ferguson set to oversee his final match as interim manager against Hibernian on 17 May in the Scottish Premiership, the incoming owners face a crucial decision regarding the club’s next permanent boss.
Patrick Stewart and Kevin Thelwell are heading up the managerial search, and one of the names under consideration is known for his tactical intelligence.
49ers target Real Madrid assistant Davide Ancelotti for Rangers job
Davide Ancelotti has held discussions with Rangers over potentially becoming their new manager, according to Record Sport.
Should the 35-year-old be appointed, Rangers would be bringing in a figure held in high regard within the Real Madrid setup, journalist Joe Brennan notes.
Brennan explained to Ibrox News that although Ancelotti has yet to serve as a head coach, there’s a belief that he’s ready to lead a team. While he has primarily worked alongside his father, Carlo Ancelotti, there’s recognition of his coaching credentials.
“It’s an intriguing one,” Brennan said. “Davide hasn’t managed a team on his own yet, having made his name under Carlo at Madrid. If this move happens, it will be fascinating to observe his tactical philosophy and how he copes with the immense expectations at a club like Rangers.
“He’s highly thought of in Madrid, despite the inevitable talk of nepotism. He runs most training sessions at Real Madrid, with Carlo often stepping back, and there’s a growing sense that he’s prepared to take the leap. He wants to be a manager — now it’s about proving he can handle the spotlight.”
A bold move worth considering
Ancelotti appears to be a serious contender for the Ibrox job. Although questions of nepotism linger, the prospective new regime clearly sees potential in him.
Despite not having led a team as head coach, he has experience at elite clubs such as Real Madrid, Napoli, and Bayern Munich — all high-pressure environments.
At 35, Davide Ancelotti could be a calculated risk for Rangers. His connections across European football might even help attract top-tier talent to Glasgow.
With the season now concluded, Stewart and Thelwell are expected to accelerate their efforts to secure a new manager for the club.
