Rangers Manager Shortlist 2025: Rohl Emerges as Favorite After Gerrard Snub
Rangers manager shortlist 2025 has taken shape after Steven Gerrard’s October 11, 2025, rejection of a return to Ibrox, leaving the club reeling from Russell Martin’s sacking. The Scottish giants, eighth with 5 points from 7 games (1W-5D-1L), fired Martin on October 5, 2025, after 123 days and 17 matches. Danny Rohl, 35, leads the Rangers manager shortlist 2025 following talks last week, with Kevin Muscat and Mark van Bommel in contention. Graham Potter, Gary O’Neil, and Michael Carrick are ruled out, per BBC Sport. With Dundee United on October 18, 2025, an announcement is unlikely before then.
Rangers manager shortlist 2025 demands a steady hand. Gerrard’s snub exposes chaos, but Rohl’s rise offers promise for revival.
Martin’s Brief, Chaotic Reign
Russell Martin’s Rangers sacking on October 5, 2025, capped a nightmare. Appointed June 2025 post-Barry Ferguson’s interim, Martin’s three-year deal promised ambition. Instead, one league win in seven (5 draws, 1 loss) and 5 total wins in 17 games left Rangers eighth, 11 points off Hearts, 9 behind Celtic.
The 1-1 Falkirk draw on October 5, 2025, with bus blockades and police escort, sealed his fate. “Results didn’t meet expectations,” chairman Andrew Cavenagh said. Martin’s Southampton promotion (2024) ended with a December 2024 sacking after 13 losses in 16 Premier League games.
Rangers manager shortlist 2025 reflects volatility. Martin’s tenure, the 12th since 2019, is shorter than Rob Edwards’ 11 games (2022).
Gerrard’s Snub: Timing and Concerns
Gerrard rejects Rangers return despite initial talks. “Not the right time,” a source said on October 11, 2025. Out since January 2025 Al-Ettifaq exit, Gerrard sought a “winning team,” per his October 8, 2025, Rio Ferdinand podcast. Rangers’ Champions League 9-1 aggregate loss to Club Brugge (August 2025) and Europa League defeats deterred him.
Kevin Thelwell’s sporting director role was a sticking point. Gerrard, wary after Villa and Al-Ettifaq, balked. Rangers manager shortlist 2025 keeps the door ajar for Gerrard’s future, but immediate return is off.
Rohl Tops Rangers Manager Shortlist 2025
Danny Rohl leads Rangers manager shortlist 2025. The German, sacked by Sheffield Wednesday in July 2025 after promotion and 12th place, impressed in October 11 talks. “He’s the one,” sources said. Rohl’s RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich assistant roles add pedigree.
Kevin Muscat, Shanghai Port coach and ex-Rangers player (1995-98), is keen. Mark van Bommel, Antwerp success (2023-24), and Sean Dyche, Everton sacking January 2025, follow. Rangers manager shortlist 2025 prioritizes experience amid chaos.
| Candidate | Age | Current Status | Strengths | Rangers Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Danny Rohl | 35 | Unemployed | RB Leipzig/Bayern assistant, Wednesday promotion | None |
| Kevin Muscat | 50 | Shanghai Port | Titles in Asia, ex-player | Played 1995-98 |
| Mark van Bommel | 48 | Unemployed | Antwerp success, PSV titles | None |
| Sean Dyche | 54 | Unemployed | Survival expert, Burnley promotions | None |
Rangers manager shortlist 2025 shortlist excludes Potter (West Ham sacking September 27, 2025), O’Neil (Wolves December 2024), and Carrick (Middlesbrough July 2025).
Thelwell’s Role Under Fire
Rangers manager shortlist 2025 scrutinizes Kevin Thelwell. Appointed May 2025 by US owners, his £20m net spend included Mikey Moore (loan) and Youssef Chermiti (£8m). Eighth place and European failures draw ire.
Thelwell’s family hires—son Robbie (recruitment head), Nathan Fisher (scout)—spark nepotism claims. Rangers manager shortlist 2025 blames Martin’s appointment, demanding accountability.
Fan Anger and Demands
Rangers manager shortlist 2025 fans demand a winner. “Gerrard was it,” said David on October 11, 2025. Falkirk protests showed fury. “Turn the tanker,” chanted supporters.
Sarah added, “Passion over youth.” Rangers manager shortlist 2025 divides: Rohl’s potential vs Muscat’s familiarity. “Dyche for grit,” said Tom.
Interim Stability
Steven Smith and Brian Gilmour, Martin’s assistants, lead interim. Their October 18, 2025, Dundee United game buys time. Rangers manager shortlist 2025 announcement may follow.
League Cup semis and Europe offer hope, but Premiership form is key. Rangers manager shortlist 2025 tests the board.
Looking Ahead: Dundee United Crucial
Rangers manager shortlist 2025 interim faces Dundee United on October 18, 2025. A win stabilizes; loss accelerates change. Rohl, Muscat, van Bommel await.
Rangers manager shortlist 2025 could define the season. With 11 points off Hearts, a bold choice is vital.
In conclusion, Rangers manager shortlist 2025, post-Gerrard’s October 11 snub and Martin’s October 5 sacking, eyes Danny Rohl. Eighth place demands urgency. Rangers manager shortlist 2025 offers hope, but Dundee United is the test.
