Rangers’ Incoming Ownership Has a Clear Vision for the Next Manager
The incoming Rangers takeover, spearheaded by Andrew Cavenagh and his new right-hand man Gretar Steinsson, is picking up speed—and there’s a defined profile for the type of manager they want.
Steinsson, who’s been working with the 49ers Group at Leeds United, is drawing from their proven formula. Paraag Marathe previously highlighted a rigorous recruitment process that ultimately led them to Daniel Farke, praising his Championship experience and promotion credentials. That same detailed approach is expected to shape the decision-making at Ibrox.
While Barry Ferguson seems an unlikely pick to continue in the role, he hasn’t ruled it out entirely—but doesn’t expect to return after the current season.
So, who are the contenders? Record Sport looks at the top candidates and where they currently stand.
Steven Gerrard (Free Agent)
The former Rangers boss appeared unusually introspective during a recent chat with Peter Crouch, hinting that he might be done with management. Since leaving Ibrox, Gerrard’s coaching career has taken a hit with disappointing spells at Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq. A return could offer a shot at redemption—but is the hunger still there?
Henrik Rydstrom (Malmo)
Rydstrom was directly linked with the job during Philippe Clement’s turbulent spell last year. He’s highly regarded for guiding Malmo to the Swedish title with an attractive, attacking style. A Swedish insider described him as a more outgoing Graham Potter and a potential future Sweden boss—though he was tactically undone by Clement’s Rangers side.
Jose Mourinho (Fenerbahce)
The Special One heaped praise on Rangers and their fans around the time Barry Ferguson led a dramatic Europa League win over Fenerbahce. Following a lacklustre season in Turkey, his future is uncertain—and he’s been increasingly linked to Ibrox. Could Mourinho make the surprising leap?
Russell Martin (Free Agent)
Martin’s recent MNF appearance turned heads with his articulate breakdown of his football philosophy. While his aggressive tactics got him the sack at Southampton, he’s been open about adapting his approach. Having previously played at Rangers in 2017, he knows the club and could be a progressive pick.
Sean Dyche (Free Agent)
For those favouring a pragmatic approach, Dyche’s name will resonate. The ex-Burnley and Everton boss hasn’t typically coached dominant sides, but both he and Rangers could benefit from a tactical evolution. Dyche once admitted managing in an Old Firm clash is on his bucket list—could that dream become reality?
Rafa Benitez (Free Agent)
Benitez was among the early names when takeover talk began. Still living in northern England, he might see Ibrox as an attractive opportunity. However, after lacklustre spells with Everton and Celta Vigo, doubts remain over whether he still has the firepower of his Valencia and Liverpool days.
Marco Rose (Free Agent)
While Celtic fans might remember him donning club gear in 2018, Rose has also spoken highly of Ibrox—especially after his Dortmund side fell to Rangers in the Europa League. Once a rising star with Salzburg, his stock has dipped following inconsistent spells at Dortmund and Leipzig. But with ties to the Red Bull network and 49ers connections, he’s a name to watch.
Kim Hellberg (Hammarby)
Another young Swedish coach, Hellberg has turned Hammarby into genuine title challengers and is reportedly admired by clubs like Swansea. Though he’s still inexperienced at the top level, his exciting start to the current campaign has not gone unnoticed—and he might be one to keep an eye on.
