Here’s a detailed breakdown of the situation at Rangers following Philippe Clement’s sacking:
Philippe Clement Sacked by Rangers
Rangers have officially parted ways with Philippe Clement after a series of poor results, culminating in a damaging 2-0 home defeat to St Mirren on Saturday, February 22, 2025. This result marked a historic low for the club, as it was the first time St Mirren had won at Ibrox since 1991. With the team now trailing league leaders Celtic by 13 points in the Scottish Premiership, the Rangers board decided it was time for a change.
Clement, who took charge in October 2023, initially brought optimism to the club, guiding them to a Scottish League Cup triumph in December 2023. However, as the season progressed, performances dipped significantly. A shocking Scottish Cup exit at the hands of Queen’s Park earlier this month piled on the pressure, and Saturday’s defeat proved to be the final straw.
Despite his brief tenure, Clement’s departure reflects the growing expectations at Rangers. The club cannot afford to slip further behind Celtic, and with Champions League qualification for next season still a possibility, decisive action was taken to replace the Belgian manager.
Who Will Take Charge in the Interim?
With Rangers set to face Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership on Wednesday and a crucial Europa League fixture against Fenerbahce looming, an interim manager is likely to be appointed swiftly.
Names being considered for a temporary role include:
Kevin Thomson – The former Rangers midfielder, who currently coaches the club’s Under-18s, could step in on a short-term basis.
Issame Charaï – Clement’s assistant, who previously worked with him at Club Brugge and Monaco, may be asked to oversee the team in the immediate future.
Potential Permanent Replacements
As the search for a new permanent manager begins, several high-profile names have emerged as leading candidates:
- Steven Gerrard – The Leading Candidate?
Steven Gerrard is widely reported to be the frontrunner for a return to Ibrox. The Liverpool legend previously managed Rangers from 2018 to 2021, leading the club to their historic invincible title-winning season in 2020/21. His tenure ended controversially when he left for Aston Villa in November 2021, a move that left some Rangers fans feeling betrayed.
Since then, Gerrard has had mixed fortunes. His time at Aston Villa was brief, and he later managed Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq, where results were underwhelming. However, his previous success in Scotland and strong understanding of the club’s culture make him an attractive option.
According to sources, discussions have already begun between Rangers and Gerrard, and his return could be a statement of intent from the club.
- Russell Martin – The Young Coach with a Point to Prove
Another serious contender is Russell Martin, the former Rangers defender who recently managed Southampton. Despite a disappointing end to his time at St Mary’s, Martin impressed by leading the Saints to Premier League promotion last season. His reputation as a progressive, tactically astute manager has caught the attention of the Rangers board.
While Martin’s playing career at Rangers was unremarkable, his managerial credentials are growing. His ability to work with young players and implement an attractive style of play could appeal to the club, especially as they plan for the future.
- Sean Dyche – A Proven Premier League Operator
Former Burnley and Everton manager Sean Dyche is also in the frame. Dyche has previously expressed interest in the Rangers job and remains available after his departure from Everton in January 2025. His experience in the English Premier League, strong defensive organization, and leadership qualities make him a solid candidate.
However, questions remain about whether Dyche’s pragmatic style of football would align with Rangers’ expectations. Additionally, he may prefer to wait for another opportunity in England.
- Kevin Muscat – The Overseas Option
Another potential option is Kevin Muscat, the former Rangers defender who has built a strong reputation in coaching. Muscat previously led Yokohama F. Marinos to a J-League title and is currently managing Chinese Super League club Shanghai Port. He was strongly linked with the Rangers job before Clement’s appointment and remains a candidate.
Muscat’s attacking philosophy and previous connection to the club could work in his favor, but luring him away from China might prove difficult.
- Other Names in the Mix
Several other names have been mentioned in discussions:
Gary O’Neil – The former Wolves boss, currently out of work.
Derek McInnes – The Kilmarnock manager is regularly linked with the Rangers job but remains an outsider.
Barry Ferguson & Neil McCann – A potential former-player coaching team has been suggested, though it would be a left-field choice.
Kasper Hjulmand – The former Denmark national team manager could bring international experience.
Gareth Southgate – England’s current manager is out of contract after Euro 2024, but his availability is uncertain.
US Investment & the Future of Rangers
This managerial change comes at a critical time for Rangers, as reports suggest significant investment from a US-led consortium is imminent. Leeds United chairman Paraag Marathe, who leads 49ers Enterprises, has been linked to a potential financial injection into the club. Such backing could influence the decision on the next manager and provide the funds needed to close the gap on Celtic.
Despite the challenges, the Rangers job remains highly attractive. The club still has a shot at finishing second in the Premiership, securing Champions League qualification, and progressing in the Europa League. A new manager could also benefit from summer investment to strengthen the squad.
Conclusion
Rangers’ decision to sack Philippe Clement signals their determination to turn things around before the season spirals further out of control. While Steven Gerrard appears to be the leading candidate for a sensational return, other names such as Russell Martin, Sean Dyche, and Kevin Muscat remain in the mix.
The next few days will be crucial for the club as they look to finalize a new appointment swiftly. Rangers supporters will be hoping for a decisive and ambitious hire to stabilize the team and mount a challenge against their dominant city rivals, Celtic.
With crucial domestic and European fixtures on the horizon, all eyes will be on Ibrox as the next chapter in the club’s managerial saga unfolds.