Danny Rohl Takes the Helm at Rangers as Steven Gerrard Reflects on Future

Danny Rohl has been officially appointed as the head coach of Rangers, marking his first managerial position since leaving Sheffield Wednesday over the summer. Rohl’s appointment follows the abrupt end of negotiations regarding Steven Gerrard’s potential return to the Scottish club.

Despite discussions with chairman Andrew Cavenagh and Paraag Marathe of 49ers Enterprises, Gerrard opted against a dramatic return to the Ibrox, thus clearing the path for Rohl’s elevation to the head coach role.

Gerrard managed Rangers from 2018 to 2021, culminating in a Scottish Premiership title during his final season before taking the reins at Aston Villa. After parting ways with Villa in 2022, he assumed control at Al-Ettifaq in 2023 but left that position at the beginning of 2025.

Gerrard has expressed that he is in no rush to return to management after his recent stints at Villa and Al-Ettifaq did not meet expectations. He emphasized the importance of selecting the “right” role before making his next move. On The Smiths Brothers podcast, he shared: “I’ve been fairly busy. I’ve had a lot of free time with my family, especially with my granddaughter arriving. We’ve moved home to be more present. I’ve been working with TNT covering Champions League and Premier League matches, accommodating my family’s needs.”

Additionally, he mentioned engagement in various endorsement activities, including events in the Far East. Although he has had conversations with several clubs about potential opportunities, he stated, “I am comfortable with my current situation and not actively seeking a job. Following my last two experiences, it is crucial that I ensure my next role is the right fit.”

Gerrard further indicated that his next opportunity must come with a passionate fanbase and genuine prospects for winning silverware. He hinted that if the right opportunity does not arise, he would be content to remain in his current situation. “I believe I fit a certain type of job; I thrive in environments with passionate supporters. The position must align with my skill set,” he noted.

Reflecting on his previous association with Rangers, he stated, “Rangers was an ideal fit for me, and I came close to rejoining. However, timing and other factors did not align. Rangers embodies my type of club—its fans and passion resonate with my approach. If a suitable opportunity does not present itself, I am comfortable continuing my current endeavors.”

On the other hand, Rangers have started positively under Rohl’s management since his appointment in mid-October. The team has won six out of the nine matches he has overseen.

Rohl will aim to secure another victory as Rangers host the high-flying Motherwell, following a disappointing 2-1 loss to league leaders Hearts last weekend. This defeat has left Rangers 12 points behind the top position and six points adrift of their rivals, Celtic.

Celtic, who have also seen a managerial change this season, replaced Brendan Rogers with Wilfried Nancy, who recently achieved his first win at the club against Aberdeen, after a challenging start that saw him lose the first four matches in charge.