Danny Rohl Emerges as Top Candidate for Rangers Head Coach Role After Kevin Muscat Deal Falls Through
After recent developments in the managerial search, Danny Rohl has emerged as the leading candidate for the head coach position at Rangers. This follows the breakdown of negotiations with Kevin Muscat, who was initially favored to replace Russell Martin. Rohl’s re-entry into the coaching race comes after he initially withdrew, believing others were ahead in the selection process.
Danny Rohl’s Coaching Background
At 36, Rohl previously managed Sheffield Wednesday, guiding them to a commendable 12th-place finish in the Sky Bet Championship. His management skills were particularly evident as he led the team from a precarious position, avoiding relegation the season before. Rohl’s successful track record includes experience as an assistant at RB Leipzig, Bayern Munich, and the German national team.
Recent Events at Rangers
Rangers are currently in discussions with Rohl as they prepare to finalize his appointment. The timing is crucial, with the team engaged in the Europa League, where they have yet to secure a win this season. A decision on Rohl’s hiring is expected shortly.
Analysis of Rohl’s Capability
Rohl has demonstrated the potential to rise to the upper echelons of coaching. His effective high-pressing style took time to implement, but he achieved significant success, pulling his previous club out of a dramatic relegation fight. This capability has drawn attention from Rangers’ hierarchy.
Kevin Muscat’s Negotiations and Withdrawal
Rangers had reached advanced stages in negotiations with Muscat, who is currently managing Shanghai Port in the Chinese Super League. Issues regarding the timing of a potential start date caused the talks to falter. With Shanghai’s final league match scheduled for November 22, a delay into December posed challenges for the planning of the Rangers’ managerial transition.
Muscat’s exit from the recruitment process comes after other candidates, including former manager Steven Gerrard, also withdrew, further influencing the direction of Rangers’ search for a new head coach.
Next Steps for Rangers
In the interim, Steven Smith, the U19 coach and a former player at the club, has taken over training responsibilities. He is focused on restoring positivity among fans following Martin’s sacking. Rangers’ upcoming fixtures include:
- Brann (A) – Europa League – Thursday
- Kilmarnock (H) – Scottish Premiership – Sunday
- Hibernian (A) – Scottish Premiership – October 29
- Celtic (N) – League Cup semi-final – November 2
- Roma (H) – Europa League – November 6
- Dundee (A) – Scottish Premiership – November 9
As the situation evolves, Rangers’ management aims to stabilize the team as they approach key matches, with Danny Rohl potentially at the helm in the near future.
