Kevin Muscat is now being labeled as an ‘outsider’ for the coveted Ibrox job. The managerial shuffle at Rangers began just a week ago when Michael Beale was unceremoniously shown the door.
Yet, the lingering question remains: who will fill the role of long-term manager for Rangers Football Club? Amidst the fervent speculation, Kevin Muscat’s name emerged as a prominent contender right from the moment Beale’s departure was announced. A former Rangers defender during his playing days, Muscat has since made waves in the managerial sphere, particularly during his tenure with Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan.
Last season, Muscat steered Yokohama F. Marinos to a J1 League title triumph, and he currently finds himself in contention for another championship this season, having taken the reins from Ange Postecoglou in 2021. Reports from The Daily Record last week even hinted that Muscat might be willing to forgo new contract negotiations in Japan, given his interest in the Rangers job.
However, recent developments suggest that Muscat’s prospects may not be as bright as initially thought. Sportsound host Kenny MacIntyre provided an update over the weekend, hinting that Muscat is currently viewed as an ‘outsider’ in the managerial race. It’s worth noting that the situation remains fluid, and Rangers could potentially change their stance on Muscat. Nevertheless, MacIntyre revealed that the club has already engaged in discussions with four potential candidates.
“What I have been told is Philippe Clement, Pascal Jansen, Kevin Muscat, and Frank Lampard have all been spoken with, Lampard is no longer under consideration,” MacIntyre disclosed. “Muscat, I’m told, is viewed – at the moment – as an outsider, that could change. Clement is a free agent but has other suitors apparently, and Jansen is very much of interest,” he added.
Kevin Muscat, once a frontrunner, now stands as an ‘outsider’ in this intriguing managerial saga. Only time will tell who ultimately emerges as the chosen one to lead Rangers into a new era of success.