“Outstanding” 4-4-2 manager explodes into race to replace Ferguson

An “outstanding” manager has now exploded into contention to replace Barry Ferguson as Rangers manager this summer, according to a report.

Gers stepping up new manager pursuit

After crashing out of the Europa League in the quarter-final, the Gers are now set for a trophyless season, which suggests major changes could be needed this summer, and it is looking increasingly likely that interim manager Ferguson is replaced.

Several top managers have been identified as potential targets, including Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho, with the 62-year-old believed to be among the frontrunners, although he would only be willing to join if he receives the board’s backing in the transfer market.

Having been in charge during the Light Blues’ 2020-21 Scottish Premiership title triumph, links to former manager Steven Gerrard are to be expected, and the Liverpool legend is now believed to be in pole position to replace Ferguson this summer.

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According to a report from TEAMtalk, the 49ers have now whittled down their shortlist to just two managers, with Gerrard being rivalled for the job by Marco Rose, who has now exploded into contention to become the new Rangers boss.

While Gerrard remains under serious consideration, there is now a feeling that the Gers could make a move for Rose, who is ready to return to work next season, having been dismissed from his role as RB Leipzig manager back in March.

The former RB Leipzig boss has shot up the list of targets, with incoming sporting director Kevin Thelwell expected to play a big role in appointing the new manager.

Ferguson is desperate to be appointed on a permanent basis, but it is now looking increasingly likely the 49ers will make an outside hire.

Rose could be “outstanding” appointment for Rangers

The German’s time at RB Leipzig may not have ended the way he would’ve wanted it to, but he enjoyed some success during his time with the Bundesliga side, winning the DfB Pokal in 2023 and the German Super Cup in the 2023-24 campaign.

Not only that, but the ex-Borussia Dortmund boss also received praise during his time at Signal Iduna Park, with Marco Reus describing the job he did during his first few months with the club as “outstanding”.

The 48-year-old, who favours a 4-4-2 formation, could be a forward-thinking appointment for Rangers, given that he likes to implement a high-pressing style of play, so it is exciting news that he is among the main candidates for the job.

There may be a desire to appoint Gerrard, given that he has already experienced success in Scotland, but Rose’s time with RB Leipzig has demonstrated he could be capable of closing the gap on Celtic and winning the title next season.