Rangers are reportedly preparing for a major managerial shake-up ahead of next season, with the club expected to bypass current interim manager, Barry Ferguson, in favor of a more high-profile name, as exclusively revealed to Ibrox News by finance expert Dan Plumley on Wednesday, March 26.
Ferguson, who is serving on a contract until the end of the current season, has had an eventful start as manager. Drawing upon his deep-rooted experience with the club and the support of his coaching staff, the former Ibrox captain has worked to instill the necessary “DNA” to improve the team’s performance in the run-up to the summer. Notably, he has orchestrated a memorable two-legged European triumph over José Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe, as well as a stunning Old Firm derby victory over Celtic just three days later.
Despite Ferguson’s impressive efforts, Plumley suggests that upcoming changes in the club’s ownership structure could prompt 49ers Enterprises to bring in a “big name” to lead the team. As is often the case when new ownership takes control, the tendency is to restructure and recruit staff to match their vision, and Rangers fans are eagerly anticipating the potential arrival of a top-tier manager.
The fanbase is desperate for the club to reclaim domestic dominance and challenge Celtic once again, following what has been a disappointing season. Although Ferguson has served as a solid temporary solution, the anticipated move by 49ers Enterprises may be seen as a harsh decision for the 47-year-old, who has been part of Rangers’ fabric for decades. However, Ferguson’s extensive experience in football, especially with the Gers, has no doubt prepared him for the brutal nature of the sport.
While Ferguson has remained tight-lipped about his long-term future, acknowledging that it is likely out of his hands, his tenure at the helm could serve as an audition for future managerial roles, either within Rangers or elsewhere. One way he could force the hands of the incoming owners would be to lead the team to a Europa League victory, improving on the club’s historic run under Giovanni van Bronckhorst in 2022. However, with the competition fierce, it’s easier said than done.
As the managerial saga continues, all eyes will be on how Rangers’ boardroom transition unfolds. While the club undergoes significant changes, Ferguson remains focused on delivering results, not just for himself, but for the club that will always remain a part of his legacy.