Ancelotti Set to Become New Rangers Manager
Real Madrid Assistant to Take Over at Ibrox
Rangers appear to have found their new permanent manager—prizing an Italian coach of top pedigree away from Real Madrid in the process.
Spanish outlet Diario AS reports that sources within Real Madrid have all but confirmed assistant manager Davide Ancelotti—son of legendary coach Carlo Ancelotti—is set to take over at Ibrox at the end of the season. Carlo Ancelotti recently agreed to take charge of the Brazilian national team.
A New Chapter for Ancelotti Jr.
The 35-year-old Parma-born coach had a modest playing career. A youth player at AC Milan under his father, Davide was released in 2009 at the age of 20 and joined lower-league side Borgomanero before retiring a year later. He subsequently earned a degree in sports science.
Since then, he has followed in his father’s footsteps as a coach, holding roles at Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, Napoli, Everton, and Real Madrid. He successfully obtained his UEFA Pro Licence in July 2023.
Described as his father’s “secret weapon,” Ancelotti now looks set to embark on his first solo managerial role, with incoming Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso expected to bring in his own backroom staff.
Backroom Staff Taking Shape
Reports suggest fitness coach Francesco Mauri is also expected to join him in Glasgow as assistant manager.
Despite still being listed at 10/1 to take the job, Ancelotti’s odds could soon shorten following this leak. Steven Gerrard, Marco Rose, and Danny Röhl currently remain ahead of him in the betting markets, but the situation appears fluid.
Timing Key as Season Ends
Rangers will close out their home campaign against Dundee United on Wednesday, followed by their final match of the season away to Hibernian on Saturday. The incoming Ibrox board—led by Leeds United chairman Paraag Marathe and American health insurance executive Andrew Cavanagh—are eager to have the new manager appointed as soon as possible after the final whistle at Easter Road.
With Rangers now confirmed to enter the Champions League qualifiers in late July, following Manchester United’s win over Athletic Bilbao, the timing of Ancelotti’s appointment will be critical.
