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Steven Gerrard has been tipped as the ‘early favourite’ for a new managerial role this week.

The former Liverpool skipper has been a free agent ever since the mutual decision to depart from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq.

This decision came after a difficult period in November and December – marked by only five victories in 17 league matches.

Gerrard took the reins at Al-Ettifaq in July 2023 and initially demonstrated promise, leading the team to a respectable sixth-place finish in his inaugural season.

However, despite signing a contract extension in January 2024 intended to secure his position until 2027, the team’s performance has significantly declined this campaign.

During his tenure, Al-Ettifaq made several notable signings, including former Liverpool players Jordan Henderson and Georginio Wijnaldum, as well as Demarai Gray from Everton?

Contrary to initial reports, Gerrard’s compensation package was more modest, with an annual salary of approximately £6.5 million, supplemented by performance-based bonuses.

Following a 25% salary increase after his contract extension in January 2024, Gerrard’s total earnings over his 18-month stint at Al-Ettifaq were around £9.75 million.

And it now seems he could make a return to management if reports are to be believed.

Steven Gerrard early favourite for manager role

Scotland’s Daily Record has sensationally linked Steven Gerrard with a return to Rangers and refers to the Liverpool legend as an ‘early favourite’.

This is after now former Rangers manager Phillipe Clement was sacked following a poor run of results last night.

Gerrard’s tenure at Rangers was marked by significant success, including leading the club to their historic 55th Scottish League title in the 2020-21 season, where they finished the campaign unbeaten in the league23.

Gerrard’s departure from Rangers in 2021 to manage Aston Villa was met with mixed emotions from fans, but his legacy at Ibrox remains strong.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that while Gerrard is among the options being considered, no direct talks have taken place between Rangers and Gerrard’s camp.

The club is assessing various candidates as they navigate a critical period, both on and off the pitch, with potential investment from a U.S.-led consortium also on the horizon.

Rangers’ decision to part ways with Clement came after a series of disappointing results, including a shocking home loss to St Mirren, which left them 13 points behind Celtic in the Scottish Premiership.

The club is now in a period of transition, seeking a manager who can revitalize their campaign and bridge the gap with their Glasgow rivals.

Gerrard was tentatively linked with League Two side Carlisle United in the days after his departure from Al-Ettifaq.

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