Steven Gerrard is reportedly on the verge of officially withdrawing from the race to become the next Rangers manager, just hours after being backed him for the role.
Despite being the bookies’ favourite to return to his former Ibrox position, Liverpool legend Gerrard was actually facing a significant challenge in persuading his wife Alex that it was the right time for the family to leave their luxurious lifestyle in the Middle East.
However, former chairman Dave King insisted on Wednesday that Gerrard should be seen as the clear frontrunner for the job, and encouraged the incoming regime to prioritize him over both Davide Ancelotti and Russell Martin.
Despite King’s late endorsement, sources in the region believe Gerrard has chosen to remain in Bahrain for at least another year, removing himself from contention to succeed Philippe Clement.
It’s understood that Gerrard’s team had begun preliminary discussions with those leading the search for a new manager. However, as we previously reported, he requested time to consider his options and discuss the potential move with his long-term partner.null
Now, it seems the couple have decided to stay put for at least another 12 months, in what is being described as a ‘lifestyle’ choice, reports the Daily Record.
There is also speculation that he could be a top contender for the role of Arne Slot’s new assistant manager, especially as Slot’s current right-hand man, Johnny Heitinga, is linked with the vacant managerial position at Ajax.
The decision is not believed to be related to tax implications, as Gerrard is now exempt from a multi-million pound HMRC penalty on the substantial earnings he accumulated during a two-year stint in Saudi Arabia with Al-Etifaq.
However, it remains uncertain whether the former England captain is still awaiting severance payments or gardening leave compensation following his dismissal from the club.
Adding to the uncertainty, it’s believed that Gerrard may be open to a future return to the helm at Ibrox, though not at this particular juncture.
Whether the prospect of an emotional return to Anfield might prompt a swift change of heart remains to be seen. However, if Gerrard does remove himself from consideration for the Rangers job, it appears to be a direct contest between Ancelotti and Martin, with incoming owner Andrew Cavenagh likely to make the final decision.
Cavenagh has tasked sporting director Kevin Thelwell and Gretar Steinsson of the San Francisco 49ers with leading the search for a new manager and narrowing down the list of candidates.
However, it’s understood that the health insurance magnate is just days away from completing his multi-million pound takeover of the club, and he will ultimately decide who will spearhead the new era from the touchline.
