Rangers Football Club has begun its search for a new manager in earnest, and among the most intriguing developments is the club’s reported contact with former boss Steven Gerrard and Real Madrid assistant Davide Ancelotti. The Ibrox outfit, one of Scotland’s most storied football institutions, is looking to reset and reassert its dominance domestically and in Europe following a period of underachievement, and their shortlist reflects a mix of proven leadership and bold ambition.
The Gerrard Factor: A Return on the Cards?
Steven Gerrard, who famously led Rangers to their 55th Scottish Premiership title in the 2020–21 season, remains a beloved figure among many supporters. His tenure at the club not only ended Celtic’s bid for ten titles in a row but also reinvigorated the team with a sense of discipline and tactical identity. Gerrard’s departure for Aston Villa in November 2021 left a bittersweet legacy—admiration for his achievements, but also disappointment at the timing.
His managerial career since leaving Glasgow has been mixed. While initially enjoying a bright start at Villa, results quickly turned, leading to his dismissal in 2022. Gerrard has since taken over at Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq, where he has worked to rebuild his reputation. A potential return to Rangers would be seen by many as a homecoming and a chance for both club and coach to rediscover their winning formula.
Insiders close to Ibrox report that informal discussions have taken place between Gerrard’s representatives and Rangers officials. While there are no guarantees of a formal offer, the talks suggest that the board is seriously considering whether a second stint for the former Liverpool captain could be the key to reigniting the club’s fortunes.
Davide Ancelotti: The Heir to a Footballing Dynasty
Perhaps more surprising—and potentially more revolutionary—is Rangers’ reported interest in Davide Ancelotti, the assistant manager at Real Madrid and son of legendary coach Carlo Ancelotti. Davide has quietly built an impressive rĂ©sumĂ©, working alongside his father at Bayern Munich, Napoli, Everton, and now Real Madrid, where he has gained a reputation for meticulous preparation, deep tactical knowledge, and an understated but effective leadership style.
While he has yet to step into a lead managerial role, Davide Ancelotti is widely seen as a coach-in-waiting, poised to follow in his father’s footsteps. A move to Rangers would represent a bold leap, not only for him but for the club, which would be entrusting a team of significant stature to a young, relatively untested manager on the top stage.
Rangers’ interest in Ancelotti likely signals their desire to embrace a modern, progressive footballing philosophy—one that could position the club more competitively in European competitions. Bringing in a coach with such elite-level experience, even in an assistant role, would be a significant statement of ambition.
Other Contenders
Gerrard and Ancelotti are just two names in what is believed to be a broader list of candidates. Reports suggest that the Rangers board is considering a mix of experienced veterans and up-and-coming talents from across Europe. Names like Kjetil Knutsen of Bodø/Glimt, who impressed in recent European outings, and Pascal Jansen, formerly of AZ Alkmaar, have also been mentioned in media speculation.
The club is expected to take a measured approach, carefully evaluating each candidate’s vision for the team, capacity to develop players, and ability to withstand the intense pressure that comes with managing in Glasgow’s Old Firm cauldron.
The Stakes for Rangers
Whoever takes the reins at Ibrox will inherit a team that has struggled to find consistency. While Rangers have shown moments of promise, Celtic’s domestic dominance and Rangers’ inconsistent European campaigns have left fans and stakeholders eager for renewed stability and success.
The new manager will be tasked not only with winning silverware but with restoring a sense of identity and purpose to the squad. The appointment will also need to align with the club’s broader strategic goals, including talent development, smarter recruitment, and long-term financial sustainability.
A Crucial Decision
Rangers are at a crossroads. The decision to speak with figures like Steven Gerrard and Davide Ancelotti signals that the club is leaving no stone unturned in its pursuit of excellence. Whether they opt for the familiarity and emotional resonance of a Gerrard return or the daring innovation that Ancelotti represents, the board’s next move will shape the future of the club for years to come.
With pressure from supporters, fierce competition from rivals, and high expectations on the domestic and continental fronts, this managerial appointment may be one of the most significant in recent Rangers history.
In the coming days and weeks, fans will watch closely as the search unfolds, hopeful that the next man in the Ibrox dugout can bring glory back to the blue side of Glasgow.
💙👔Rangers Sound Out Steven Gerrard and Davide Ancelotti as Search for New Manager Intensifies
