AliousSteven Gerrard Poised for Dramatic Rangers Return as Manager Search Reaches Final Phase
Rangers are reportedly nearing a sensational managerial appointment, with club legend Steven Gerrard now leading the race to take over permanently following Barry Ferguson’s interim tenure. Ferguson oversaw his final match at Easter Road against Hibernian, drawing a line under a transitional period at the Glasgow club.
According to a Daily Mail report (19 May), Gerrard has emerged as the primary candidate in a shortlist compiled by Rangers decision-makers Patrick Stewart and Kevin Thelwell. With the managerial hunt now entering its final stages, the former Liverpool and England captain could be set for a surprise return to Ibrox—pending the completion of the anticipated US-led takeover by Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises.
Gerrard, who famously ended Rangers’ decade-long wait for a Scottish Premiership title during his first stint, is seen as a steadying presence after a series of disappointing appointments. His coaching résumé includes spells at Aston Villa and most recently, Saudi club Al-Ettifaq. Notably, he remains the last man to guide the Light Blues to league glory—something that has escaped them since his departure.
Despite Gerrard’s historical success, opinion among the Ibrox faithful is divided. While some fans welcome the return of a proven winner, others remain skeptical, citing the substantial financial outlay it took to secure his previous success. Additionally, Gerrard’s association with Michael Beale—who later struggled in his own tenure at Rangers—has fueled doubts among the support base.
Celtic’s renewed dominance under Brendan Rodgers only increases pressure on Rangers to deliver immediate results. Patience is running thin, and any new project, even one helmed by a former hero, will face intense scrutiny.
Should Gerrard return, he would inherit a team in need of stability and revival—while also needing to prove that he can replicate past success under new circumstances. His track record post-Ibrox has been mixed, making this potential reunion one of the most compelling storylines in Scottish football heading into the new season.
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