Following the dismissal of Russell Martin after a mere four months in charge, Rangers Football Club has been actively seeking a new manager to steer the team. Martin's short tenure saw the team secure only one victory in their initial seven Premiership matches, leading to his departure.
Initially, Steven Gerrard, who famously guided Rangers to an undefeated league title in 2021, emerged as a front-runner for the position. Gerrard's previous success at Ibrox cemented his status as a hero among many Rangers supporters, particularly as that title win marked their only league championship since their financial difficulties in 2012.
However, after what sources describe as "constructive discussions" with the club, Gerrard decided that the timing was not right for a return. Despite positive conversations, both parties agreed to keep the door open for future possibilities. Gerrard, who had recently left his position with Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq in January, expressed his desire to manage a team that competes for championships in a recent interview, suggesting he has "unfinished business" in management.
With Gerrard out of the running, Rangers have been linked to several other potential candidates. Among the names being considered are Danny Rohl, the former Sheffield Wednesday manager, and Michael Carrick, the former Manchester United player. Rohl, who has also served as an assistant coach at Bayern Munich and for the German national team, is reportedly a strong contender, having made an impressive presentation to the Rangers hierarchy. Carrick, who has been out of work since June, also has experience as an assistant at Manchester United and briefly served as interim manager. Other names mentioned include Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna and former Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl.
Currently, Rangers Under-19 coach Steven Smith is overseeing first-team training on an interim basis, supported by B team coach Brian Gilmour, goalkeeping coach Sal Bibbo, and head of performance Rhys Owen.
The new ownership group, 49ers Enterprises, who took over the club this summer, is under pressure to make a successful appointment. They have publicly stated their goal to build a team that can consistently win trophies in Scotland and compete at a high level in Europe. The urgency to find a suitable manager is amplified by Rangers' current standing in the Scottish Premiership, where they are already significantly behind their rivals.
Rangers face Dundee United at Ibrox on Saturday, followed by a Europa League match against Brann and a home game against Kilmarnock. These matches are considered must-win as the club aims to regain ground in the league and progress in European competition.
