# Rangers Accelerate Manager Hunt: Rohl Emerges as Frontrunner After Gerrard Twist
Glasgow, Scotland – Rangers FC’s search for a new manager has intensified, with German tactician Danny Rohl emerging as the clear frontrunner after Steven Gerrard’s withdrawal from talks. The Ibrox club, struggling after a poor start to the 2025/26 Scottish Premiership season under sacked boss Russell Martin, is moving swiftly to appoint a successor before the international break concludes.
Gerrard, the Liverpool legend who ended Celtic’s nine-year title dominance in 2021, held positive discussions with Rangers’ American owners, Andrew Cavenagh and Paraag Marathe. However, the former Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq coach opted out on Saturday, citing poor timing amid his sabbatical. “Stevie G remains revered,” said club ambassador Billy Dodds, “but the board must act decisively now.”
With Gerrard out, Rohl – the 35-year-old ex-Sheffield Wednesday head coach – has surged ahead. Bookmakers have slashed his odds to 4/6, reflecting rapid progress in negotiations. Rohl’s Owls escaped relegation in the Championship last season through tactical brilliance and youth integration, impressing Ibrox scouts. Sources indicate Rangers view his high-pressing, data-driven style as ideal for rebuilding a squad languishing in eighth place, with just one league win so far. “He’s highly regarded,” noted a club insider, “and talks are advancing quickly – a deal could be imminent.”
Rangers have also made firm decisions on other targets. Derek McInnes, the Hearts boss steering his side to the Premiership summit after a summer switch from Kilmarnock, has been ruled out. Despite his Rangers playing pedigree and openness to a move, no formal contact was made, prioritizing stability at Tynecastle. Similarly, Kevin Muscat – the ex-Rangers defender thriving with Chinese champions Shanghai Port – remains admired for his continental success but has slipped to 4/1 in the market. Dodds praised Muscat’s fan appeal, but Rohl’s availability edges him ahead.
Other names like Sean Dyche and Graham Potter linger, but momentum is with Rohl. Fans, desperate to halt Celtic’s early dominance, are vocal for swift action. As one supporter posted on X: “Rohl’s energy could reignite Ibrox – get it done!”
An announcement is expected within days, with Rohl’s potential arrival signaling Rangers’ bold pivot toward innovative youth. For now, the hunt intensifies, but the German’s star is rising fastest.
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