Nils Koppen emerges as a key issue for Rangers amid impending 49ers takeover
As Rangers prepare for a significant transition with a prospective takeover by 49ers Enterprises, sporting director Nils Koppen has found himself at the center of growing criticism.
The Light Blues are on the verge of new ownership, with 49ers Enterprises — the group behind Leeds United’s recent success — expected to take the reins. The Americans have earned praise for steering Leeds back into the Premier League by winning the EFL Championship, sparking speculation that a similar model could be implemented at Ibrox.
While fans await official confirmation, Record Sport columnist Keith Jackson has highlighted major concerns within the club’s recruitment strategy, pinpointing Koppen as a major factor behind Rangers’ ongoing issues.
Jackson: Koppen a major part of Rangers’ recruitment woes
In his latest column, Jackson expressed doubts over Rangers’ ability to mount a serious challenge to Celtic next season. He referenced Barry Ferguson’s assessment, which pointed to the damaging impact of Koppen’s transfer decisions.
Jackson wrote: “There’s a history of wealthy American investors entering the Scottish game with a misplaced belief that they understand it better than locals. Often, ego and arrogance cloud their early judgment before they come to grips with the complexities of Scottish football.
“That seems to be happening with incoming sporting director Kevin Thelwell and football consultant Gretar Steinsson, representing the 49ers. Worryingly, they appear to be putting their faith in Nils Koppen — the architect of Rangers’ flawed recruitment strategy — rather than Barry Ferguson, who rightly identified Koppen as a serious problem.”
Ferguson, who served as interim boss, had reportedly intended to remove Koppen had he been given the job permanently. However, Thelwell and Steinsson’s decision to part ways with Ferguson while keeping Koppen in charge of summer transfers has raised eyebrows — especially as the search for a new manager continues.
Managerial search continues as Gerrard and Ancelotti linked
Following a mixed spell in charge, Barry Ferguson will not be kept on as permanent manager. The appointment of a new boss is expected after the takeover is finalized.
Steven Gerrard, who famously led Rangers to an unbeaten league title in 2021, remains in contention following his exit from Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia. However, Davide Ancelotti has emerged as a frontrunner. The son of Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly considering his options following the duo’s recent departure from Real Madrid.
According to The Athletic, discussions are ongoing regarding Davide and Francesco Mauri’s next move, with a potential switch to Rangers under consideration. Although Carlo Ancelotti is expected to begin work with Brazil’s national team, his son’s future remains undecided as Ibrox circles await the next development.
