AliousGerrard Edges Closer as Rangers’ Managerial Saga Nears a Dramatic Conclusion
Rangers’ long-running search for a new manager appears to be heading toward its conclusion, with Steven Gerrard now emerging as the leading candidate to return to the Ibrox dugout. According to journalist Keith Jackson of the *Daily Record*, discussions between the club and the former manager have intensified, and Gerrard is now widely considered the “last man standing” in the ongoing hunt for Philippe Clement’s successor.
Following Barry Ferguson’s short stint as interim boss—marked by a mix of steady performances and inconsistency—Rangers have been evaluating multiple options for the permanent role. Names such as Davide Ancelotti and Russell Martin have been floated, with reported dialogues taking place behind the scenes. However, those alternatives now seem to have lost momentum, leaving Gerrard as the frontrunner to return to the post he vacated in 2021.
Jackson, speaking on 21 May, confirmed growing chatter that Gerrard is not only in serious contention but may already be considered the preferred candidate by the club’s hierarchy. “We think there has been contact and conversations,” Jackson stated. “There is a suggestion that he is the last man standing, the preferred candidate. I’m not even going to counter that.”
It’s understood Gerrard has requested a brief extension before finalizing any agreement to sort out personal matters involving his family, indicating that while talks are progressing, nothing is official yet.
Despite the rising momentum behind Gerrard’s potential return, there remains a school of thought that Rangers may benefit more from taking a bold new direction—particularly with the candidacy of Davide Ancelotti. At just 35, Ancelotti has built a promising reputation under the guidance of his father, Carlo Ancelotti, while serving on the coaching staffs at elite clubs such as Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Napoli, and Everton.
Ancelotti’s youth, tactical sharpness, and international experience offer an appealing contrast to Gerrard, whose recent managerial tenures—especially at Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq—have not matched the heights of his title-winning 2020/21 season with Rangers. Critics argue that Gerrard’s return could bring with it the weight of past expectations and limit the scope for innovation.
Ancelotti, unburdened by previous ties to the club, represents a fresh start. His exposure to top-level football and diverse coaching methods could bring a progressive, modern style that positions Rangers to challenge Celtic domestically and reclaim credibility in Europe. Though untested as a head coach, his enthusiasm for the Rangers project could align well with the ambitions of a club eager for rejuvenation.
As the saga nears its end, Rangers face a pivotal decision—reignite the Gerrard era with hopes of rekindling past success, or gamble on new blood with the potential to reshape the club’s future from the ground up.
Alious
