Steven Gerrard Manager
The former Aston Villa and Rangers manager, Steven Gerrard, has shed light on his decision not to return to the Scottish Premiership as the manager of Rangers. Despite having a successful tenure with Rangers, where he led the team to a league title in the 2020/21 season, Gerrard decided against a return to the club. This decision comes after his recent departure from Al-Ettifaq by mutual consent in January. Gerrard’s explanation provides insight into the factors that influenced his choice, with timing and personal considerations playing significant roles.
Steven Gerrard said: “In terms of Rangers, very close. I had some really positive and interesting talks with the owners. It felt a bit rushed to me because I had my family in Bahrain at the time. I had a lot to think about and a short space of time to give a decision. There was a few things that I was uncertain about. And if I’m going to take a challenge that big and that important, I’ve got that affection and that connection with Rangers. For me to take that on again, it had to be perfect and I had to be 100 per cent ready. Unfortunately, I wasn’t due to the timing, so I stepped aside and I wish them all the best. They’re got a fantastic manager now. I’ll watch as a fan from afar and I wish them all the best, certainly tomorrow in the Old Firm game.”
When asked if it had anything to do with the structure of the club at present or if it was just the timing, Gerrard added: “No, the timing wasn’t right from a family point of view. But of course, you have to do your due diligence in certain things and if things are not perfect, as well, I have to analyse is it right for me? The pressure and the responsibility is on your shoulders, it’s such a massive challenge and a massive club. My heart was there, and it always will be with Rangers, but I’ve also got to look at the football side of it. Is it right for me? Is the timing right? And are things perfect for me to be the best version of myself in that job? Unfortunately, the timing, that didn’t feel right to me. And listen, I’ve got that much respect for Rangers, the supporters and the owners, and everything connected to the club, I wouldn’t go in there if I was 80, 90 per cent ready. If it doesn’t, I wish the club all the very best moving forward. But my heart was 100 per cent there because I’ve got that connection with the club.”
Gerrard’s decision not to return to Rangers was influenced by a combination of personal and professional factors. He emphasized the importance of being fully prepared for the significant responsibilities that come with managing a club of Rangers’ stature. The timing was not ideal for Gerrard, who had his family based in Bahrain, making it difficult to commit fully to the role. Despite his strong emotional ties to the club, Gerrard prioritized ensuring that he would be in the best position to succeed and contribute positively to the team.
As Danny Rohl takes over as the new Rangers manager, Gerrard expressed his support and best wishes for the club, indicating his continued affection and connection with Rangers. His reflections highlight the complexities and considerations involved in making career decisions in the world of football management.
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