Over the past 48 hours, the rumour mill has been in full swing with talk of Steven Gerrard returning to Rangers as the club’s next permanent manager. He’s now believed to be one of three candidates left on the shortlist, alongside Davide Ancelotti and Russell Martin.
So, would bringing Gerrard back be a good move for Rangers — or a step in the wrong direction? Let’s take a look at both sides.
✅ Potential Pros of Gerrard’s Return
The 55-Title Season & Emotional Bond with Gerrard
The 2020–21 campaign — when Gerrard led Rangers to our 55th league title and stopped Celtic’s bid for ten in a row — will forever be etched in Rangers folklore. That success created a strong emotional connection between Gerrard and the fans, and for many, that bond has never truly broken.
Gerrard has Unfinished Business at Rangers
Shortly after clinching the title, Gerrard famously said, “We have to fix the roof while the sun is shining.” Unfortunately, the board didn’t act decisively, failing to invest in the squad or cash in on peak-value assets. Gerrard saw what was coming and left for Aston Villa — but in his interviews since, he’s consistently spoken fondly of Rangers. There’s a sense that he has unfinished business at Ibrox.
Gerrard has Familiarity with the Club
Gerrard already knows the league, the club, the training facilities, and — crucially — the demands of the Rangers support. With a new Sporting Director, a reshaped recruitment team, and fresh ownership on the horizon, this might be the structure Gerrard had hoped for during his first spell.
European Experience & Reputation
Gerrard guided Rangers through Europa League campaigns with composure and tactical maturity. His name still carries weight globally, and during his previous tenure, it helped attract higher-calibre players. That pulling power could benefit the club once again.
Growth as a Manager
Since leaving Ibrox, Gerrard has managed in both the Premier League and Saudi Pro League. While the results were mixed, those experiences may have matured him and broadened his tactical outlook — something that could prove valuable in a second spell.
❌ Potential Cons of Gerrard’s Return
The Way Steven Gerrard Left Rangers
Gerrard’s mid-season departure to Aston Villa still leaves a sour taste for some fans. It felt abrupt, coming just as Rangers needed to build on title success. That move may cast doubt over his long-term commitment should he return.
Steven Gerrard has an Inconsistent Domestic Record
Despite delivering 55, Gerrard’s domestic record — especially in cup competitions — was underwhelming. There was often a lack of attacking variety, with predictable wide play and over-reliance on crosses, which opposing teams learned how to counter.
The Coaching Model Has Changed, Can Gerrard?
Rangers are now moving toward a Head Coach model under a Director of Football. During Gerrard’s time, it was clear how much influence Gary McAllister and Michael Beale had behind the scenes. Ironically, Beale’s disastrous spell as manager came largely because the board believed he was the brains behind Gerrard’s success. Can Gerrard adapt to a more collaborative role, or is he too much of a figurehead to slot into a modern structure?
Appointing Gerrard Feels Like a Step Backwards for Rangers
Some fans might view Gerrard’s return as a nostalgic but regressive move. With new owners incoming and the promise of a fresh era, reappointing a former manager might not align with that vision. There’s a risk that it looks like a lack of boldness or imagination from the board.
Steven Gerrard’s Recent Managerial Form
Gerrard’s managerial stats since leaving Rangers don’t inspire confidence. He averaged 2.15 points per game at Rangers, but just 1.18 at Aston Villa (before being dismissed after 40 games) and 1.33 at Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia, where he lasted 55 matches. His next job needs to go well — and he’d be under immediate pressure to deliver.
🧭 So, Is Gerrard the Right Move?
When the early list of names was doing the rounds, Gerrard was the standout — especially compared to some of the uninspiring alternatives. That changed when Davide Ancelotti emerged as a serious contender and, notably, neither the club nor Ancelotti denied the links.
For us, Gerrard’s biggest challenge would be transitioning from the role of traditional manager to the modern Head Coach setup that Rangers seem to be adopting. There’s no denying his status and presence — but Ancelotti, despite being younger, has coached at some of the biggest clubs in Europe and may be more suited to this kind of structure.
Ultimately, we’re not opposed to Gerrard’s return — he’s not a bad option by any means. But it just doesn’t feel like the bold change the club needs right now.
📊 Who Should Get the Job?
Looking at the three names on the reported shortlist, Davide Ancelotti is our preferred choice. Gerrard is a close second — and if he does get the nod, he’ll have our full support, as any Rangers manager should. Russell Martin, he should not be on our shortlist. His possession based football versus the low-block in Scotland will drive us crazy and feels like we will be back talking about amazing stats after dropping points against some of the smaller teams in the league.
Let us know what you think over on social media — would you welcome Stevie G back to Ibrox?
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