Credit: Imago

Dan Godfrey

Fri 25 April 2025 16:10, UK

Rangers are likely to have a list of numerous potential candidates to become the new manager at Ibrox from the summer.

Barry Ferguson has steadied the ship since the exit of Philippe Clement in February, and gave the Gers fans something to cheer about with the Old Firm win at Celtic Park and progression to the UEFA Europa League quarter-finals.

All eyes at Ibrox are now, however, on the takeover situation, as a major update emerged earlier this week that “productive conversations” have been held between the current Rangers majority shareholders and the incoming consortium (Sky Sports, 23 April).

49ers Enterprises chief holds Rangers manager talks

Ferguson was aware when he came back through a very familiar Ibrox door that it would be on a short-term basis, though many would argue he has done enough to remain in consideration by Rangers for the long haul.

However, a new regime does give Gers autonomy to explore, especially if they are planning to invest to new levels compared to the incumbent ownership.

Rangers supporters wait with excitement to see who the new manager could be, and a significant development has been revealed courtesy of 49ers Enterprises’ other footballing interest, Leeds United.

Leeds have been linked with sacking Daniel Farke despite him having this week steered them back to the Premier League, and 49ers director Gretar Steinsson – previously technical director at Leeds but still operating at Elland Road through Paraag Marathe – has been holding managerial talks with candidates across Europe (The Athletic, 25 April).

As highlighted, however, the Yorkshire giants have cleared up that Steinsson’s talks have not been with a view to appointing a new Leeds manager, but one to replace Ferguson at Ibrox instead.

Beren Cross said: “Sources have told The Athletic that [Gretar] Steinsson has been having conversations with managerial candidates from across the continent.

“Steinsson shifted from his role as technical director at Leeds to the same role across 49ers Enterprises.

“49ers Enterprises are aiming to purchase a stake in Rangers, and Leeds insisted that Steinsson’s conversations were in relation to hiring a new manager at Rangers.”

Ibrox trophy cabinet is starved, investment is required

A season devoid of a trophy is an outright failure for Rangers, and this season they have come so close in some competitions, yet disgracefully far in others.

This has now been the case in two of the past three seasons, having also not threatened the league title from Celtic.

Fresh investment and strategy are more than overdue at Ibrox, and the Rangers supporters will instantly begin to believe again. Their entity is huge – they just need the right people to steer it to success.

Ferguson could be forgiven for feeling hard done by if he is not persisted with in the dugout from next season, but it would also be understandable if a huge name with a proven CV were to be appointed.