AliousRangers Set to Appoint New Boss This Week as Gerrard and Martin Face Off in Final Stage of Managerial Race
Rangers are nearing the end of their search for a new head coach, with a final decision expected within days. The managerial shortlist has been narrowed to two leading candidates—Steven Gerrard and Russell Martin—as the Ibrox hierarchy prepares for a decisive round of talks this week.
According to reports, the club has accelerated its selection process and is now in the final stages of evaluating both out-of-work managers. The decision comes nearly three months after Philippe Clement was dismissed in February, a move first reported by *SunSport* alongside early speculation linking Martin to the role.
Russell Martin, formerly in charge at Swansea City and Southampton, has been engaged in ongoing discussions with Rangers, even turning down alternative opportunities in anticipation of a possible return to Glasgow. His familiarity with the club—he played on loan during the 2018 season—adds to his appeal among the board and incoming investors, including the San Francisco 49ers-backed consortium.
Martin is expected to hold further talks this week with new Sporting Director Kevin Thelwell and CEO Patrick Stewart, as Rangers seek to solidify their leadership structure ahead of a pivotal summer.
However, Steven Gerrard remains firmly in contention for a dramatic comeback. The 44-year-old’s previous tenure at Rangers from 2018 to 2021 culminated in the club’s historic 55th league title, breaking Celtic’s dominant run and reinvigorating the fanbase.
Following his departure to Aston Villa, Gerrard’s managerial journey hit a rocky patch, and after being dismissed in the Midlands, he accepted a lucrative role with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. While it’s believed he had been contemplating a break from football—especially as he anticipates becoming a grandfather—Rangers have reignited their interest in luring him back.
His return, however, could be complicated by tax considerations linked to UK employment within two years of taking a foreign post, having joined Al-Ettifaq in July 2023.
Despite those hurdles, the Rangers board is keen to explore the possibility of rekindling the Gerrard era, which brought both silverware and renewed identity to Ibrox. Further negotiations are scheduled in the coming days, with an announcement expected by the end of the week as the club aims to begin the 2025/26 campaign with a clear vision and leadership in place.
Alious
