Steven Gerrard is reportedly preparing to officially withdraw from contention for the Rangers managerial role, despite being heavily favored for the position just hours earlier.
Although bookmakers had made the Liverpool legend the frontrunner to return to Ibrox, Gerrard faced a major obstacle—convincing his wife, Alex, that now was the right time for their family to leave their luxurious life in the Middle East.
On Wednesday, former Rangers chairman Dave King publicly backed Gerrard as the top candidate for the job, encouraging the new leadership to prioritize him over rivals Davide Ancelotti and Russell Martin.
Despite King’s endorsement, sources in the Gulf region suggest Gerrard has opted to remain in Bahrain for at least another year, effectively removing himself from the race to replace Philippe Clement.
While Gerrard’s representatives had reportedly held early discussions with those overseeing the managerial search, he asked for time to weigh his options and consult with his wife. Now, it seems the couple has decided to stay in the Middle East for at least another year—a decision described by insiders as a lifestyle choice, according to the Daily Record.
There are also growing rumors that Gerrard could become a leading candidate to join Arne Slot’s backroom staff at Liverpool. With current assistant Johnny Heitinga linked to the Ajax head coach vacancy, Gerrard might be considered for the role.
His decision is not believed to be influenced by tax concerns, as he’s no longer liable for a significant HMRC penalty tied to his earnings during his time in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ettifaq.
Uncertainty remains, however, over whether Gerrard is still due severance or compensation after his departure from the Saudi club.
It’s also believed that Gerrard has not ruled out a future return to Rangers, but the timing isn’t right at the moment.
Should Gerrard indeed withdraw from consideration, the race to be the next Rangers manager would likely come down to Davide Ancelotti and Russell Martin. The final decision will rest with incoming owner Andrew Cavenagh.
Cavenagh has put sporting director Kevin Thelwell and San Francisco 49ers executive Gretar Steinsson in charge of narrowing down the managerial candidates. While his takeover is expected to be finalized soon, Cavenagh will ultimately decide who leads Rangers into a new era from the sidelines
