Rangers Coaching Update Danny Rohl Withdraws from Race as Kevin Muscat Emerges as Top Contender to Succeed Russell Martin

ago 2 hours
Rangers Coaching Update Danny Rohl Withdraws from Race as Kevin Muscat Emerges as Top Contender to Succeed Russell Martin

In a significant turn of events regarding the Rangers head coach position, Danny Rohl has withdrawn from contention. This decision comes after he had engaged in talks with the club hierarchy. As a result, Kevin Muscat has risen as the leading candidate to replace Russell Martin.

Coaching Developments at Rangers

Rohl, aged 36, previously impressed Rangers during discussions last week. However, he is the second candidate to withdraw, following Steven Gerrard’s exit from consideration. Rohl’s managerial experience includes a stint at Sheffield Wednesday, where he achieved a 12th-place finish in the Sky Bet Championship before parting ways in July. Notably, he had also been a contender for the role in the summer before Russell Martin’s appointment.

Kevin Muscat: The Frontrunner

Currently managing Shanghai Port in the Chinese league, Muscat has garnered interest from Rangers. The 52-year-old has a notable career, having played for Rangers during their treble-winning season in 2002-2003. His team is presently at the top of the Chinese league table, with four matches remaining, the final one scheduled for November 22.

If Muscat is offered the Rangers position but cannot leave his current role until the season concludes, the club may appoint an interim coach. Neil McCann, a former Ibrox player, is among those linked to this interim role.

Other Candidates Considered

Rangers management has been in discussions with multiple candidates since sacking Russell Martin on October 5 after just 123 days in charge. The club is currently in the eighth position in the Scottish Premiership standings after a 1-1 draw with Falkirk.

Potential Alternatives

  • Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: The former Manchester United manager, sacked by Besiktas in August, has expressed interest.
  • Graham Potter: Former West Ham head coach is no longer in contention for the role.
  • Gary O’Neil: Former Wolves boss was considered but is out of the running.
  • Bo Svensson: Previously discussed, now ruled out.
  • Ralph Hasenhuttl: Former Southampton manager was linked with the position.

Negotiations have involved various club officials, including chairman Andrew Cavenagh and vice-chairman Paraag Marathe, alongside technical director Gretar Steinsson. The club anticipates finalizing their decision as they look to fill the vacant head coach position before their next match.

Upcoming Fixtures for Rangers

Date Opponent Competition
October 21 Dundee United Scottish Premiership
October 23 Brann Europa League
October 26 Kilmarnock Scottish Premiership
October 29 Hibernian Scottish Premiership
November 2 Celtic League Cup semi-final

As Rangers seeks to redefine their coaching strategy, developments around Kevin Muscat and other candidates remain dynamic as they approach crucial matches in the coming weeks.