As Rangers edge closer to a monumental decision, the choice of their next manager is set to define not only the coming season but the club’s future identity. Two powerful narratives have emerged: one built on familiarity and unfinished business with Steven Gerrard, and another grounded in innovation and long-term structure with Davide Ancelotti.
The Case for Gerrard: Unfinished Business
Dave King, former chairman and soon-to-be former major shareholder, has thrown his full support behind Steven Gerrard’s return. King sees Gerrard as the “obvious choice,” highlighting his transformational impact during his first spell at the club. Gerrard inherited a squad lacking belief and direction in 2018 and rebuilt it with steel, structure, and standards that eventually led to the club reclaiming the Scottish Premiership title.
King argues that Gerrard understands the unique pressure of Glasgow and already has a proven track record of managing that intensity. He recalls how Gerrard came for the project, not the paycheque, and believes that same motivation still exists. For King, Gerrard offers stability, emotional connection, and the best chance of rebuilding the team without the cultural learning curve.
The Ancelotti Appeal: Modern Identity & Vision
On the other side of the debate stands Davide Ancelotti, a name with pedigree and a project to match. The 35-year-old assistant to his father Carlo at Real Madrid has been credited with many of the club’s modern tactical innovations. Having previously worked at Bayern Munich, Napoli, and Everton, Davide is now ready to step out of his father’s shadow.
Ancelotti recently held in-person talks in London with Rangers and is reportedly the board’s top choice. He’s eager to begin his first head coach role and has rejected a move to join his father with the Brazilian national team. Instead, he wants to lead his own project.
Ancelotti’s vision is modern and long-term: a collaborative coaching structure, with five or six specialists rather than a single figurehead. He wants to build a club identity that lasts beyond his tenure, one based on culture, unity, and progressive football. Players at Real Madrid, including Luka Modric, reportedly respect him immensely—and Modric hasn’t ruled out a move to Ibrox himself.
Rangers Fan Sentiment & Strategic Direction
The Rangers support is split. Some yearn for the return of Gerrard, whose connection to the club is etched in recent history. Others are energised by the possibility of a bold new era with Ancelotti. Both choices come with risks and rewards.
The recent appointment of Kevin Thelwell as Director of Football, beginning next month, hints that the new board is moving toward a more continental, structured approach to football operations. That setup fits perfectly with Ancelotti’s collaborative model, potentially giving him the edge in strategic alignment.
The Clock is Ticking
There is, however, a growing sense of urgency. Ancelotti has several other offers on the table—including interest from Serie A, Saudi clubs, and Bayer Leverkusen. Rangers have been without a permanent manager since Barry Ferguson’s interim role ended several weeks ago, and Champions League qualifiers are now less than six weeks away.
According to the BBC’s Guillem Balague, a decision needs to be made by the first week of June at the latest if Rangers are to secure Ancelotti. That pressure may be coming from his camp, who are clearly focused on finalising a move soon.
Gerrard, meanwhile, remains available and arguably more patient. He would likely need fewer weeks to adapt and could quickly get to work.
The Verdict
This isn’t just a managerial appointment—it’s a philosophical choice about the future of Rangers Football Club. Do the board and new ownership double down on a proven, emotionally resonant leader in Gerrard? Or do they invest in a modern, long-term architect in Ancelotti who can lay foundations for a new era?
Either way, a decision must come quickly. The fans are growing restless, the Champions League looms, and the longer the uncertainty drags on, the more difficult the summer rebuild becomes.
The next chapter at Ibrox is about to be written—but who holds the pen?
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