Will the top dogs at Ibrox stick or twist in terms of style? Could they go back to somebody who has proven their worth before? They’ll have options.
| Next Rangers manager market | Odds |
|---|---|
| Steven Gerrard | 6/4 |
| Sean Dyche | 2/1 |
| Kevin Muscat | 7/1 |
| Barry Ferguson | 8/1 |
| Mark van Bommel | 10/1 |
Odds courtesy of bet365. Correct at time of publishing and subject to change.
Rangers’ next manager
A draw against Falkirk proved to be the final event that led to Martin’s dismissal in Scotland. That result meant just two wins across 10 matches for the team. His long-awaited dismissal was decided over the weekend. Therefore, the search for his replacement has begun.
However, what kind of manager will the club settle for? Will they try to find somebody with a similar style to improve on Martin’s work, or will they change direction completely to put this unfortunate period behind them?
We examine the current five favourites according to bet365, and make our pick for the best option.
Steven Gerrard
Gerrard would be a popular choice given his history at the club. The Liverpool legend was the last Rangers manager to win a league title - in 2020/21 - and did so without losing a game. Also, they topped their Europa League group that season, and supporters really bought into what he was trying to do.
Some might consider it as a step backward, returning to a former manager, but that tactic has proven to be successful in other clubs. Also, he's currently unemployed, so he’s available. Gerrard is said to be ‘under consideration’, and it’d be no surprise to see him back at Ibrox.
Sean Dyche
The current favourite is former Burnley and Everton boss Dyche, who is on the lookout for his next challenge. His appointment would require them to change their style. However, it would almost certainly bring about an upturn in results. The Englishman’s credentials are well known, and he’d make Rangers a force again.
The Scottish giants are currently eighth in the Premiership, with only one win across seven games. That is expected to change under Dyche. He’d certainly be up for the challenge and the chance to manage in European competition. However, his style isn’t always exciting, so some fans may need to be convinced.
Kevin Muscat
In terms of somebody who understands Rangers’ culture and requirements, Muscat would be an interesting appointment. The former Australian international spent the 2002/03 season in Glasgow, where he lost just twice in 26 appearances. He’s won titles in Australia, Japan, and China since transitioning to management, and has been likened to ex-Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou.
Based on the current situation, some bookies see him as the favourite, and he could be tempted to leave Shanghai Port for this job. However, it is uncertain whether the Rangers hierarchy wants a manager who is unproven in European football. He’s certainly in with a shout, though.
Barry Ferguson
Few people understand Rangers’ core values and identity as well as Barry Ferguson. He signed for Rangers in 1994 and made over 400 appearances for them across two spells, winning multiple league titles. Although he is available, will he be interested in accepting the job?
Some supporters thought he was unfairly overlooked when Martin was appointed after Ferguson’s interim spell. However, the former Gers midfielder says that the issue is now resolved and forgotten. Since the club's American owners chose not to hire the 47-year-old before, it would likely be surprising if they decided to pursue him again.
Mark van Bommel
This one seems like the most left-field shout currently. Van Bommel was a special player, but has had limited success as a manager, although his 2022/23 season with Royal Antwerp was impressive. He was involved in discussions with the club before they appointed Martin. Moreover, there have been mixed reports on whether he’d be interested.
The ex-Bayern Munich and Barcelona midfielder has managed PSV and Wolfsburg in his short career off the pitch so far. Moreover, he is available as he left Antwerp last year. The 48-year-old would be an interesting appointment, but it seems like Rangers may choose a more familiar manager this time.