AliousRangers are currently enjoying a strong run under interim manager Barry Ferguson, but this resurgence has arrived too late to salvage their season.
Despite advancing to the Europa League quarter-finals and securing a notable victory over Celtic at Parkhead, the team finds itself trailing by 13 points in the Scottish Premiership and eliminated from both domestic cup competitions.
With the impending takeover by the 49ers and Paraag Marathe, a significant managerial appointment is on the horizon.
Football finance expert Dan Plumley has suggested that a takeover typically brings a bold declaration of ambition, often in the form of a prominent new manager.
He points to Marathe’s swift appointment of Daniel Farke at Leeds United—arguably the most high-profile name in the Championship—as evidence of the 49ers’ decisive approach.
Plumley believes Rangers likely already have a list of top-tier candidates prepared, poised to bring in a high-caliber manager once the takeover is finalized.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, Plumley noted, “If this deal goes through, given Marathe’s track record at Leeds in the initial phase, it’s probable that Rangers have a managerial shortlist ready, featuring some notable names.
A takeover almost demands a strong follow-up move, and securing a top manager—whether a seasoned veteran or a rising star from Europe—sends a powerful message about the club’s direction.”
While Ferguson has made an impressive mark in key matches, history shows that transitioning an interim manager to a permanent role rarely succeeds.
Derek Ferguson, speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, indicated that his brother Barry is unlikely to settle for a supporting role on a coaching staff, preferring instead to lead as the head figure.
Meanwhile, the 49ers, alongside Marathe and Andrew Cavenagh, are pushing to complete their takeover well before the summer, setting the stage for sweeping changes at Ibrox.
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