Steven Gerrard Nears Rangers Return Amid Managerial Shifts

Steven Gerrard, the Liverpool legend and former Rangers manager who led the Glasgow club to a Scottish Premiership title in 2021, is currently a leading candidate to return as Rangers' manager following the recent dismissal of Russell Martin. Despite strong speculation linking him to the vacant Rangers role, Gerrard's representatives have indicated he is hesitant to relocate his family back to the UK from the Middle East, where he last managed Al-Ettifaq. Former Liverpool teammate Vladimir Smicer suggests Gerrard should consider managing a Championship club like Wrexham or Birmingham to rebuild his managerial career and potentially pave the way for a future Liverpool role. Meanwhile, former Rangers chairman Dave King claims Gerrard was previously "kicked out" of the club against his wishes, asserting that his departure marked a decline for Rangers, which have since struggled under subsequent managers. King has publicly urged the current Rangers ownership, 49ers Enterprises, to rehire Gerrard, emphasizing his past success and importance to the club's ethos. Overall, Gerrard faces a crucial managerial decision amid mixed perspectives on his readiness and the best path forward for his career.