Steven Gerrard Stuns Rangers Fans with Unexpected Reason for Rejecting Ibrox Return
In a shocking twist that has left Rangers fans reeling, Steven Gerrard has officially ruled himself out of a sensational return to Ibrox as the club’s next manager. The Liverpool legend, who led Rangers to their first Scottish Premiership title in a decade in 2021, was heavily tipped to replace Philippe Clement, who was sacked earlier this year. However, the reason behind Gerrard’s rejection has sparked disbelief among the Light Blues faithful.
Despite holding talks with Rangers and receiving a personal endorsement from former chairman Dave King, who called him the “obvious choice” with “unfinished business” at Ibrox, Gerrard has chosen to stay in the Middle East for family reasons. Reports reveal that the 44-year-old’s wife, Alex, played a pivotal role in the decision, expressing reluctance to leave their luxurious lifestyle in Bahrain. This unexpected personal choice has stunned supporters who anticipated Gerrard’s emotional return to the club he once transformed.
Gerrard’s decision comes just hours after King praised his passion for Rangers, noting his departure in 2021 to join Aston Villa was reluctant. Fans were further convinced of his return when Gerrard pulled out of a charity match in France for “professional reasons,” fueling speculation. Yet, sources close to the former England captain confirm that he couldn’t persuade Alex to relocate, prioritizing family over a second stint at Ibrox.
The news has shifted the focus to other candidates, with Davide Ancelotti and Russell Martin now in a straight shootout for the role, as incoming owner Andrew Cavenagh prepares to finalize the appointment. While Gerrard hasn’t entirely closed the door on a future return, his current stance has left fans divided—some respect his family-first approach, while others feel let down by the abrupt end to their hopes of a triumphant comeback.
Gerrard’s legacy at Rangers remains untarnished, having ended Celtic’s dominance with an unbeaten league campaign. However, his “bizarre” rejection, driven by a lifestyle choice few could have predicted, has sparked heated debate across Glasgow. As Rangers gear up for pre-season and Champions League qualifiers, the search for a new manager intensifies, but Gerrard’s decision will linger as one of the most surprising twists in the club’s recent history.
