The Rangers head coach merry-go-round has been in full swing this week. First, reports emerged that Davide Ancelotti, son of Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti, had been offered the role and was expected to be announced this week after Steven Gerrard withdrew from the running due to family commitments.
New Contenders Enter the Race for Rangers Manager
Then a new candidate entered the fray in the form of recently dismissed Ajax boss Francesco Farioli, with speculation linking the Italian to the position.
Shifting Focus Back to Ancelotti and Russell Martin
At the start of this week, the focus shifted back to Ancelotti, only for Fabrizio Romano to report today that former Southampton manager and ex-Rangers player Russell Martin was set to be appointed.
Ongoing Discussions and Media Speculation
However, more recent reports from Scottish media suggest that discussions with several potential candidates remain ongoing, and no final decision has been made. Rumours indicate the Martin link could either be a tactic from the Ancelotti camp to mislead the media or a strategy from Rangers to entice the Italian to make a decision.
New Sporting and Technical Directors in Place
With Kevin Thelwell appointed as the new Sporting Director and Dan Purdy as Technical Director, replacing the outgoing Nils Koppen, the club is edging closer to a final decision. A press conference to announce the new head coach is expected later this week.
The Clock Is Ticking Ahead of Rangers Champions League Qualifiers
Rangers will need to act swiftly, with UEFA Champions League qualifiers looming at the end of July. The club must assemble a squad capable of securing qualification and domestic success, and crucially, appoint the man to lead them.