Godwin ObajeRangers Managerial Race Narrows as Danny Rohl Withdraws, Kevin Muscat Emerges Favourite.
The race to become the next Rangers manager has taken a significant turn as another prominent candidate steps aside, leaving former Ibrox defender Kevin Muscat as the clear frontrunner to succeed Russell Martin.
Ex-Sheffield Wednesday manager Danny Rohl has confirmed he will no longer pursue the opportunity at Rangers, following the earlier announcement from Steven Gerrard that he is not interested in returning to the club at this time.
Rohl, 36, held discussions with Rangers officials last week and was reported to have made a positive impression during the process. His coaching pedigree is notable, having previously served as assistant manager at RB Leipzig, Bayern Munich, and with the Germany national team. During his tenure at Sheffield Wednesday, Rohl was credited with steering the club clear of relegation in the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship season and later securing a 12th-place finish before departing in July.
However, the German coach has now decided against taking the Rangers role, a development that significantly boosts Muscat’s chances of being appointed.
Kevin Muscat, 52, is currently managing Chinese Super League side Shanghai Port. He guided the club to the CSL title last season and they remain in strong contention to defend their crown, sitting two points clear with just four games remaining. Their domestic campaign concludes on 22 November.
Muscat’s history with Rangers is distinguished. As a player, he was a key part of the team that won the domestic treble in 2003, his only season at Ibrox. His managerial success is also well documented, having secured league titles in Australia with Melbourne Victory and in Japan with Yokohama F. Marinos.
Speculation has grown around Neil McCann potentially taking over as interim manager until Muscat becomes available to return to Glasgow. McCann, a former teammate of Muscat at Rangers, is seen as a steady hand who could stabilise the club during this transitional period.
Meanwhile, the PA news agency has confirmed there have been no fresh negotiations between Rangers and Gerrard since his decision to rule out a return. Despite this, bookmakers continue to list the former Liverpool captain among the favourites for the role, alongside a handful of other notable names.
Other candidates reportedly under consideration include former Manchester United player and manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Hearts boss Derek McInnes, ex-Chelsea and West Ham manager Graham Potter, and former Wolves manager Gary O’Neil.
Rangers are set to resume their Scottish Premiership campaign after the international break with a home fixture against Dundee United on Saturday. Currently eighth in the league, they trail leaders Hearts by 11 points and Celtic by nine after seven matches.
This period marks a critical juncture for the Light Blues, who are seeking stability and progress under a new manager following Russell Martin’s departure.
Quotes and Context
Danny Rohl’s decision not to pursue the Rangers job came as a surprise to many, especially given his recent success in stabilising Sheffield Wednesday. His coaching experience at top European clubs had made him a strong contender, but sources close to the club indicate his choice was influenced by personal reasons and a desire to reconsider his career path.
Steven Gerrard’s explicit statement ruling himself out of a return to Ibrox remains the clearest signal that the club will need to look beyond high-profile former players for leadership.
Meanwhile, Muscat’s strong track record both as a player and manager adds weight to his candidacy. His experience winning titles across different countries suggests he has the tactical acumen and leadership qualities necessary for Rangers’ ambitions.
Looking Ahead
As Rangers navigate this managerial transition, the focus will be on securing a candidate who can not only deliver immediate results but also build long-term success. With Muscat’s availability contingent on the conclusion of the Chinese Super League season, McCann’s potential interim role could prove vital in maintaining momentum.
The club’s hierarchy is understood to be carefully weighing all options, balancing the need for experience, tactical innovation, and alignment with the club’s values and vision.
Supporters and analysts alike will watch closely as the saga unfolds, eager to see who will lead Rangers into what promises to be a competitive and challenging campaign.
Godwin Obaje
