Report: Liverpool legend Gerrard linked to swift return to coaching to manage two Super Eagles stars

Liverpool Legend Steve Gerrard || Credit: Getty

Report: Liverpool legend Gerrard linked to swift return to coaching to manage two Super Eagles stars

Ayoola Kelechi 23:52 - 08.02.2025

After his disappointing spell at Al Ettifaq, Steven Gerrard could be set for a quick return to management

Steven Gerrard could be in line for a sensational return to Rangers following his recent departure from Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq.

The former Liverpool captain, who led the Glasgow giants to the Scottish Premiership title in 2021, is reportedly among the candidates being considered and will have the opportunity to work with two Nigerian internationals, Leon Balogun and Cyriel Dessers.

Rangers legends back Gerrard’s return

Since leaving Al-Ettifaq by mutual consent after a challenging 18-month spell, Gerrard has been linked with several clubs, including Derby County and Wycombe Wanderers.

Gerrard, former manager of Al-Ettifaq || Imago

However, a return to Rangers has gained traction, with club legend Ally McCoist and former Celtic boss Neil Lennon both suggesting it could happen.

McCoist told talkSPORT BET, “It wouldn’t surprise me if Steven Gerrard came back to Ibrox. He’s obviously held in really high regard by the supporters because of the league title he won, and his next job is going to be vitally important for him.”

Steven Gerrard signed as the new head coach of Al-Ettifaq this summer

Lennon echoed this sentiment, telling Casino Uden Rofus, “Steven Gerrard back to Rangers? You never know in football. You can never rule anything like that out.”

Current Rangers boss Philippe Clement has struggled to close the gap on Celtic, and with the club trailing their rivals by 13 points, his job could be under scrutiny if results do not improve.

Balogun and Dessers could play key roles

If Gerrard does return, he will inherit a squad that includes Nigerian duo Leon Balogun and Cyriel Dessers.

Leon Balogun and Cyriel Dessers after the game.
Leon Balogun and Cyriel Dessers after the game.

Balogun, a key figure in Rangers’ defence, was part of Gerrard’s title-winning squad in 2021 before briefly leaving the club and returning in 2023.

Dessers, meanwhile, joined in 2023 and has been an important presence in the attack despite his recent struggles for game time.

Gerrard started his coaching career at Rangers, with three Super Eagles stars led by Joe Aribo.

Gerrard’s time at Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq was underwhelming, but his legacy at Rangers remains intact and with the club eager to reclaim domestic dominance from Celtic, his familiar face could be seen as the man to restore their fortunes.