Credit IMAGO / PA Images

Steven Gerrard in Talks Over Rangers Return After Russell Martin’s Exit

Credit IMAGO / PA Images

Steven Gerrard is set for discussions with Rangers about a sensational return to Ibrox as head coach, following the sacking of Russell Martin. The Scottish Premiership club are eager to stabilize their season after a poor start. They are reportedly open to reappointing Steven Gerrard but first wanted confirmation that he was interested in the role.

That step now appears to have been taken. Talks are expected to progress over the coming days as Rangers begin the process of finding a permanent replacement. Sources close to the club have confirmed that Gerrard is among several candidates on Rangers’ shortlist. The former Liverpool skipper remains the frontrunner given his successful previous tenure at Rangers and enduring popularity among supporters. According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, “Gerrard’s return to Rangers is closer than ever, with talks advancing and set to continue this week.” Notably, there have already been positive initial discussions between the two parties.

🚨🔵 Steven Gerrard’s return to Rangers, closer than ever with talks advancing and set to continue this week.

Positive initial discussions in the last 24h and Rangers hierarchy’s set to meet with Gerrard to discuss further details. pic.twitter.com/2byJqPazCr
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 8, 2025

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Steven Gerrard’s Turbulent Managerial Journey

Gerrard’s managerial journey has been turbulent since he left Rangers in 2021 for Aston Villa. While his early promise in Scotland saw him lead the club to their first league title in a decade, his spells afterward were less fruitful. He lasted just over a year at Aston Villa, achieving a 32.5% win rate. Gerrard then moved to the Saudi Pro League with Al-Ettifaq, where he managed a 39% win rate before leaving by mutual consent earlier this year.

During his first spell in Glasgow, Gerrard transformed Rangers both on and off the pitch. He rebuilded the squad, established a strong European presence and achieved a 64.8% win rate while collecting multiple Manager of the Month awards. His leadership ended Celtic’s domestic dominance and restored belief among Rangers fans.

Steven Gerrard

Age: 45
Nationality: English
Last Club: Al-Ettifaq
Preferred Formation: 433
Win rate: 55% (174W/70D/75L)
PPG: 1.86
Trophies: 1x Scottish Premiership

It looks like Steven Gerrard is set to return to Ibrox, would you be happy with that choice? pic.twitter.com/9jfLosNnoF
— Kai Watson (@KaiGWatson) October 8, 2025

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The current Rangers squad looks notably different from the one Gerrard left behind, with significant summer transfer activity that saw the arrival of players like Tottenham loanee Mikey Moore and Everton forward Youssef Chermiti. There were also plenty of departures including key players such as Cyriel Dessers and Ridvan Yilmaz. Captain James Tavernier, one of Gerrard’s trusted leaders during his previous reign, still remains a vital presence in the dressing room.

Rangers

Steven Gerrard

Abhinav Goel

soccer

I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.