The sudden egress of former Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has created an outrage among the fans for obvious reason. He himself dismissed the exit rumours a few weeks ago but opted for the Aston Villa job to succeed Dean Smith in the West Midlands. While he grabbed the opportunity of a Premier League return, the Gers are now stable enough to attract big names for their vacant managerial position.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Rangers have shortlisted a few candidates including their former midfield star Giovanni van Bronckhorst.
Rangers have shortlist ready to replace Gerrard. The board will start official contacts during the weekend – talk scheduled also with Gio van Bronckhorst ???????? #RangersFC
Former Rangers and Barça player, he’s in the list together with other 2 managers. He’s interested in the job. pic.twitter.com/NaWGnVSK32
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 12, 2021
Bronckhorst had a glorious playing career both at the club and country level. In addition to the famous Glasgow Rangers, the 106-capped Dutch international also represented Barcelona, Arsenal and Feyenoord. He enjoyed a successful coaching stint with the latter who conquered the coveted Eredivisie crown (in 2017) under his tutelage dethroning Ajax. Feyenoord won a couple of KNVB Cups as well including one in his first season in charge (2015–16) as ‘De club aan de Maas’ chief.
Meanwhile, he spent the year 2020 in China with Guangzhou R&F but decided to return to his homeland in December. He should be ready now for a fresh challenge to pursue his managerial aspirations, and therefore, must grab this opportunity of a reunion with the Ibrox faithful for the first time in 20 years.
Why The Stage Is Set For Bronckhorst To Take Rangers To The Next Level
Although Gerrard’s departure has led to repercussions, it’s more of an emotional outburst from the supporters who witnessed the transition and enjoyed the ride. From being humiliated in the Old Firm derbies, Rangers clinched the 55th league title as the ‘invincibles. They made it through to the last 16 of the Europa League in successive campaigns, thus improving Scotland’s coefficient in Europe.
The reigning champions have a four-point cushion over the Hoops (after 13 games) at the top of the standings. Also, a place in the Europa League knockouts is still pretty much in their own hands despite defeats in the first two group stage outings. Moreover, the iconic Liverpudlian has built enough depth as well as quality across the pitch and it is to be seen now how quickly Bronckhorst makes the team play in his preferred 4-2-3-1 tweaking from Gerrard’s usual 4-3-3.
