Steven Gerrard’s managerial career has been a rollercoaster. After leading Rangers to their first Scottish Premiership title in a decade back in 2021, he opted for a new challenge at Aston Villa. However, that move did not go as planned, and he was dismissed after just 11 months. His subsequent tenure in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ettifaq also ended in disappointment, leaving many to wonder what’s next for the former Liverpool captain.
Despite his recent struggles, Gerrard remains a respected figure at Ibrox. His impact in Glasgow was undeniable—he transformed Rangers into title winners, breaking Celtic’s domestic dominance. But could a return to Scotland be the key to reviving his managerial career?
For many, heading back to familiar ground is often a logical step in rebuilding a career. Rangers provided Gerrard with his greatest success as a manager, and a second spell could allow him to regain confidence and prove his worth once again.
Ally McCoist, a Rangers legend himself, has voiced support for the idea, stating that a move back to Ibrox wouldn’t be surprising given Gerrard’s strong connection with the club and its supporters. Former Celtic manager Neil Lennon also suggested that nothing should be ruled out in football, leaving the door open for speculation.
However, timing is everything. Philippe Clement is currently at the helm, and Rangers, while trailing Celtic by a significant 13-point margin, are still sitting in second place in the league. If Clement manages to close the gap and secure silverware, there may be little reason for a managerial change. But should the Belgian coach falter, Gerrard could emerge as the perfect candidate to steady the ship.
If Gerrard does return to Rangers, it won’t be without challenges. The Scottish Premiership is becoming increasingly competitive, and expectations at Ibrox are sky-high. He would need to rebuild trust with fans who may question his decision to leave in the first place and prove that he has learned from his experiences at Villa and Al-Ettifaq.
On the other hand, the opportunity to manage Rangers again could reignite his career. He already knows the club inside and out, understands the demands of the Old Firm rivalry, and has the tactical experience to succeed in Scotland. Furthermore, his return could attract quality signings, as players would be eager to work under a manager with his stature.
For now, Gerrard’s next move remains uncertain. But if Rangers find themselves in need of a new leader in the near future, the possibility of a sensational return to Ibrox could become a reality.
