Rangers could find themselves in the market for a new manager for the third time in a year, with current boss Danny Rohl reportedly engaged in discussions with Austrian club RB Salzburg. While a move is not yet confirmed, the speculation has inevitably prompted discussions among fans and pundits about potential candidates to lead the Ibrox side into the new season, with pre-season training due to commence shortly.
Rohl's eight-month tenure at Rangers has seen a significant turnaround in fortunes, pulling the club back into the title race after a challenging start to the season under Russell Martin. However, a late slump, which saw them lose four of their final five matches and ultimately finish third in the Premiership, has reportedly diminished some of his authority with sections of the fanbase. Interest in the 37-year-old German has been growing from both German and Austrian clubs, suggesting a potential amicable parting could be on the horizon for both parties.
One prominent name being discussed is former Rangers manager Steven Gerrard. The former Liverpool captain, who guided Rangers to their last league title in 2021, revealed he was 'very close' to returning to Ibrox last October following Russell Martin's dismissal, before Rohl's appointment. Gerrard cited 'uncertainties' at the time, which reportedly included working under the previous Rangers hierarchy. With sporting director Kevin Thelwell and chief executive Patrick Stewart having since departed, Gerrard might find the current club structure more appealing, potentially offering him greater influence over recruitment.
Gerrard has previously expressed his affinity for clubs with passionate fanbases, stating in December that Rangers was 'perfect' for him. His subsequent spells at Aston Villa and Saudi club Al-Ettifaq did not replicate his Ibrox success, suggesting a return to a familiar and beloved environment could appeal. The financial backing from Rangers chairman Andrew Cavenagh and his consortium, a point of contention towards the end of Gerrard's first spell, could also be a significant draw.
Another name frequently linked with the Ibrox hot seat is Hearts head coach Derek McInnes. McInnes, who has a playing history with Rangers and a strong track record in Scottish football, previously turned down the opportunity to manage the club in 2017 while at Aberdeen. Despite his clear commitment to Hearts, where he enjoyed a historic season, leading them close to their first league title since 1960 before a late defeat to Celtic, his experience and success in the Scottish Premiership make him a perennial candidate for top jobs in the country. McInnes has a strong relationship with Hearts' sporting director Graeme Jones, and the backing from owner Tony Bloom's data analytics company, which could make persuading him to leave Tynecastle a challenging task for Rangers.