Odds Slashed on Steven Gerrard’s Rangers Return Amid ‘The Special One” Speculation
The football world is buzzing with speculation as Rangers Football Club searches for a new manager to replace Philippe Clement, who was sacked in February after a disappointing 16-month tenure. The Scottish giants, trailing rivals Celtic by 17 points in the Scottish Premiership, are at a critical juncture, with an impending US takeover by Andrew Cavenagh and the 49ers Enterprises group adding to the intrigue. Among the names linked to the Ibrox hotseat, Steven Gerrard, the former Rangers boss, has seen his odds for a sensational return slashed dramatically. However, recent reports suggest Rangers may be leaning toward a blockbuster appointment in Jose Mourinho, one of football’s most decorated managers, as their next head coach.
Steven Gerrard, who managed Rangers from 2018 to 2021, remains a fan favorite for his role in delivering the club’s first Scottish Premiership title in a decade in 2021. That unbeaten season, which halted Celtic’s run of nine consecutive titles, cemented Gerrard’s legacy at Ibrox. His 64.8% win rate, SPFL Manager of the Year award, and seven Manager of the Month honors highlight his success. Bookmakers, including Bet365 and Betfair, recently made Gerrard the odds-on favorite, with odds dropping from 7/4 to 8/11 and even 2/9 at one point, fueled by a flurry of bets. Some bookies even suspended betting on Gerrard’s return after reports of “crunch talks” with the club, suggesting a deal was imminent. Social media posts from sources like Record Sport and talkSPORT further amplified the hype, with Gerrard reportedly considering leaving his lavish life in Bahrain, where he has been since his Al-Ettifaq stint ended in January.
Yet, a twist in the tale has emerged. Rangers are reportedly eyeing Jose Mourinho, the “Special One,” whose illustrious career includes Champions League triumphs with Porto and Inter Milan, as well as league titles across England, Spain, and Italy. Currently at Fenerbahce, Mourinho has been linked with Rangers, with fans excited by the prospect of such a high-profile appointment. Despite having a year left on his Fenerbahce contract, speculation persists, with The Scottish Sun noting Rangers’ interest in the 62-year-old. Sources suggest the club’s new ownership prefers a manager representing “the future,” potentially ruling out Gerrard, whose post-Rangers record at Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq was less impressive.
The shift in focus to Mourinho could disappoint Gerrard, who is reportedly keen to return to Ibrox. Former Rangers striker Kris Boyd praised Gerrard’s ability to handle the club’s intense pressure, noting, “Steven showed he can do that for three years in Glasgow.” However, the allure of Mourinho’s pedigree and tactical acumen may align with Rangers’ ambitions to close the gap on Celtic and compete in upcoming Champions League qualifiers.
As Rangers approach their pre-season on June 23, the decision looms large. While Gerrard’s odds reflect strong support, Mourinho’s potential appointment signals a bold new era. Fans await clarity, but the Ibrox faithful are braced for a seismic managerial shift.
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