Andrew Cavenagh is now expected to accelerate the search for a new manager at Rangers following the completion of the club’s takeover.
Speculation around the managerial vacancy has dragged on for some time, with no concrete appointment yet on the horizon. However, the new ownership group has already made a decisive move by parting ways with Nils Koppen, signaling their intent to get moving swiftly.
With that shake-up in motion, it seems increasingly likely that a new manager will be named soon, paving the way for preparations to begin in earnest ahead of the upcoming season.
Rangers tipped to land their own version of Ange Postecoglou
Despite some allowance for early missteps, the new regime understands that their first managerial hire is crucial. That may be part of the reason for the delay in naming a successor, as the final choice appears to be narrowing to either Davide Ancelotti or Russell Martin.
Ancelotti has frequently led the speculation, but his limited experience as a standalone manager remains a concern for decision-makers at Ibrox. Meanwhile, Martin offers more managerial mileage, but there’s a lingering fear Rangers might later regret not gambling on Ancelotti’s potential.
Stephen McGowan of The Herald (2 June) drew comparisons between Ancelotti and former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou, suggesting the 35-year-old could bring similar conviction, energy, and ambition to the Ibrox side. McGowan wrote:
“Right now, it feels as if Rangers are looking for a young Ange. A coach of conviction with plenty to prove, who can find his feet in Scottish football quickly, forge a new team and give the folk on the other side of the city a run for their money. Given time and a fair wind, Davide Ancelotti just might be that man.”
Backed by the 49ers investment group along with figures like Thelwell and Purdy, standards at the club—on and off the pitch—are expected to rise. Ancelotti could potentially make an immediate impact, though at this stage, his appointment is far from confirmed.
Rangers face a bold decision
Choosing Ancelotti would undeniably be a gamble, given his inexperience at the helm. However, selecting Martin would come with its own risks, particularly after a difficult season at Southampton and the challenges that come with adapting to Scottish football.
With Steven Gerrard now reportedly out of the running, the new hierarchy must be prepared to make a bold, possibly transformative decision. As McGowan points out, if Ancelotti receives strong support and resources, there’s no reason he couldn’t succeed—despite the appointment being somewhat uncharacteristic.
Ultimately, Rangers are determined to re-establish themselves as title challengers alongside Celtic, and a swift, confident managerial appointment could be the first major step in that direction.
