Rangers next manager: Major Steven Gerrard development emerges
San Francisco 49ers are reportedly keen on hiring Steven Gerrard as the next Rangers manager once the takeover is finalised.
The NFL giants are yet to make a final decision on Barry Ferguson’s future, with him currently holding the role as the interim manager.
The recent loss at Ibrox against Hibs certainly will not give his chances a boost, but Europa League success could swing things in his favour.
Southampton are now keen on hiring Gerrard
The former Gers boss is understood to be in the running to take over the reins at Southampton, per Birmingham Live.
Post their relegation, the Saints parted ways with Ivan Juric – their second managerial sacking of the season.
49ers Enterprises might miss out on appointing Gerrard as manager [TBR Football] following their takeover due to his potential move to Southampton.
| Team | Position | Points | Wins | Draws | Defeats | Goals | Conceded |
| Rangers | 1st | 102 | 32 | 6 | 0 | 92 | 13 |
Gerrard, who left Rangers in 2021 to manage Aston Villa in the Premier League, is in contention for the Southampton job after their recent managerial vacancy.
Southampton, despite their current struggles in the Premier League, offer a more lucrative financial package and the allure of managing in England’s top flight again – a key factor in Gerrard’s previous departure from Rangers.
If Southampton secure promotion, it would elevate his managerial profile further, aligning with his apparent ambition to build a legacy in one of the world’s most competitive leagues.
Rangers, while a prestigious club with a passionate fanbase, compete in the Scottish Premiership, which lacks the global prestige and financial muscle of the Premier League, potentially making Southampton a more attractive proposition for Gerrard.
49ers can still try bringing Gerrard to Rangers
To counter this, the 49ers could leverage their significant financial resources and NFL-backed vision to make Gers an irresistible project.
They could offer Gerrard a substantial salary, rivaling or exceeding Southampton’s, alongside a generous transfer budget to reshape the squad and challenge Celtic’s dominance.
Emphasising a long-term, transformative plan, such as modernising the club’s infrastructure, enhancing their European competitiveness, and tapping into their American sports expertise, might appeal to Gerrard’s desire to leave a lasting mark.
Additionally, highlighting his emotional connection to the Ibrox outfit, where he won the 2020-21 title, could sway him.