Steven Gerrard Reveals Three Key Reasons for Rejecting Glasgow Rangers Return

Steven Gerrard was the top managerial target for Rangers’ US owners, Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises, as they sought a replacement for Russell Martin. However, the Liverpool legend ultimately withdrew from the race, citing several crucial factors behind his decision.

The former Rangers manager, who famously guided the club to a Scottish Premiership title during his previous spell at Ibrox, was initially the supporters’ preferred choice for a sensational return. After two days of discussions in London, Gerrard decided to turn down the opportunity, despite serious interest from the club’s hierarchy.

According to reports from the Daily Record, Gerrard’s decision was based on three main reasons. Firstly, the 44-year-old felt the timing was not right, believing that taking over mid-season would not give him the best chance to rebuild and reshape the squad effectively. Rangers currently sit eighth in the Scottish Premiership, and the incoming manager faces huge pressure to revive their campaign.

Secondly, talkSPORT revealed that Gerrard had “some reservations” about working under the current sporting structure at the club. During face-to-face discussions overseen by sporting director Kevin Thelwell, the former Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq boss expressed concerns over the level of autonomy he would have. While the decision was not personal towards Thelwell, Gerrard is understood to have wanted greater control — similar to what he enjoyed during his initial tenure at Ibrox.

Lastly, Gerrard was said to be wary of the scale of the challenge involved in taking over a struggling team midway through the season. Reports suggest he prefers to wait for an opportunity in the summer, when he can oversee a full pre-season and shape the team according to his vision.

His withdrawal from the race has reportedly surprised some members of the Rangers hierarchy, forcing them to reassess their options.

Former Sheffield Wednesday boss Danny Röhl and Shanghai Port manager Kevin Muscat have now emerged as frontrunners to take over the managerial position at Ibrox.