Gerrard’s meeting with Rangers chiefs stirs talk of a sensational return
The football world watched as Steven Gerrard, the former Rangers captain and title-winning manager, met with the club’s American owners and senior executives last week. Sky Sports reported that Gerrard was left impressed by the discussions with chairman Andrew Cavenagh and Paraag Marathe, the two figures steering the Gers into a new era. The talks, held during Gerrard’s visit to London, fueled speculation about a possible return to Ibrox, with the former Liverpool idol weighing up a second stint in Glasgow.
Gerrard, who continues to live with his family in Bahrain, had previously been seen as a leading candidate to replace Russell Martin, who had departed the club. The level of interest and the warmth of the conversations suggested a genuine mutual respect between Gerrard and Rangers’ ownership group, even though the manager’s chair would ultimately remain empty at the weekend.
The decision that surprised the fanbase
Despite the positive rapport and the sense that Gerrard still carries unfinished business in Govan, the timing did not align with the club’s immediate needs. Record Sport and other outlets reported that Gerrard chose not to pursue the Ibrox vacancy at this juncture, opting to keep his options open rather than commit to the challenge ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.
As a result, Rangers have shifted their focus to identifying a new manager who can deliver stability and fresh momentum. The immediate frontrunner described in Monday reports is Danny Rohl, the former Sheffield Wednesday head coach who has made a strong impression in early-stage discussions at Ibrox. Rohl’s approach and tactical ideas are now under intense scrutiny by club officials who are keen to move swiftly ahead of a pivotal home game against Dundee United.
Who else is in the frame
Alongside Rohl, other names have been linked with the vacancy as Rangers seek a plan B and a long-term appointment. German coach Danny Rohl has emerged as a credible option, while Kevin Muscat and former Wolves manager Gary O’Neil have also been mentioned in circulating speculation. The club’s decision-makers recognize the need for haste—yet also for discernment—given the challenge of succeeding at a club staring at high expectations every season.
What Gerrard’s decision means for Rangers
Gerrard’s withdrawal from the race for Ibrox manager signals a continued preference to reassess options rather than commit immediately. The former captain’s comments, described as respectful and thoughtful, indicate that he retains a strong affinity for Rangers and a belief that he could return in the future under the right circumstances. For now, however, the club must navigate a delicate balance between urgency and certainty as they prepare for the weekend fixture against Dundee United.
In the coming days, Rangers will likely conclude their final lineup decisions while ensuring support from the fanbase remains steady. The club’s communications channels—Record Sport’s coverage and official Rangers pages—have kept supporters informed as the search continues. Fans are urged to stay tuned for updates, with social feeds and newsletters promising the latest developments as the squad prepares to take the field at Ibrox.
What to watch next
The immediate focus is on appointing a manager who can hit the ground running and galvanize the squad. How the partnership with owner leadership evolves, and whether Gerrard remains in the club’s orbit for potential future roles, will be key talking points in the weeks ahead. As the season unfolds, Rangers’ decisions off the pitch could prove as influential as those made in the dugout.
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