Next Permanent Rangers Manager Betting Odds & Predictions

Last updated: 4 June 2025 by Leon Marshall

Rangers Football Club is undergoing a crucial transition as they seek a new manager following Philippe Clement’s exit. Trailing behind rivals Celtic in the Scottish Premiership, the pressure is on to find a leader who can restore their competitive edge. The next Rangers manager odds spotlight intriguing candidates, each offering unique strengths and weaknesses. We delve into the top five favourites and a few surprising outsiders, sharing our thoughts on their suitability.

The managerial hunt at Rangers is approaching its conclusion as the club’s new American-led ownership aims to bring in fresh leadership for a new era at Ibrox. With Barry Ferguson ruled out of the running for the permanent role, attention is now focused on a shortlist of high-profile candidates.

This expanded guide will provide a detailed overview of the five leading contenders, their managerial credentials, and the current odds, as well as a look at the main outsiders still in the mix.

Rangers’ New Era: Takeover and Ambition

Rangers are entering an exciting new phase following the acquisition by the American consortium, led by Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises. Significant investment is promised, and with Kevin Thelwell arriving as sporting director, the new manager will have the resources necessary to challenge Celtic’s dominance in the Scottish Premiership.

With Champions League qualifiers and pre-season fixtures rapidly approaching, the urgency surrounding the appointment is growing. Consequently, the race for the next Rangers manager has seen considerable activity on football betting sites.

Davide Ancelotti (1/3) – Favourite for Rangers Job

Davide Ancelotti, former assistant coach at Real Madrid and son of Carlo Ancelotti, is the leading contender at online bookmakers for the Rangers managerial role. Ancelotti is highly regarded for his tactical expertise, having worked alongside some of the best managers in Europe.

Though he lacks head coach experience, his deep understanding of top-tier football and his success working with elite players at Real Madrid position him as the frontrunner for the role.

Reports indicate that Ancelotti is eager to take on this new challenge at Ibrox, and he is expected to bring fresh ideas to the club’s management structure.

Russell Martin (5/4) – Progressive Manager for Rangers

Russell Martin has emerged as one of the top contenders for the Rangers job following his successful stints at MK Dons, Swansea City, and Southampton. Known for his emphasis on progressive, possession-based football, Martin’s focus on youth development aligns well with the vision of the new Rangers hierarchy.

Although his time at Southampton was challenging, his coaching philosophy and previous successes in lower leagues have made him a strong candidate. Martin is reportedly keen on taking on the challenge at Ibrox and could bring a fresh, modern approach to the squad.

The bookies may be predicting Ancelotti, but my money is on Martin.

Marco Rose (17/1) – Bundesliga Experience

Marco Rose, a proven manager in the Bundesliga, has been closely linked with the Rangers job due to his experience with RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund. Rose is well-regarded for his tactical flexibility and his ability to develop exciting, attacking football. With his connections to the 49ers group, Rose remains a popular option for the Ibrox role.

His managerial experience in top-flight European football makes him a strong candidate, although recent speculation has raised doubts about whether he would leave Germany for the Scottish Premiership.

Francesco Farioli (10/1) – Young Tactical Mind

Francesco Farioli, the young Italian coach, has recently become a notable name in the race for the Rangers job. Following his departure from Ajax, Farioli has been discussed as a potential candidate due to his innovative approach and recent successes in the Dutch league. Known for his tactical intelligence and focus on developing young talent, Farioli could bring a fresh perspective to Rangers.

Although his experience in top-tier football is limited, his potential to adapt to the demands of a high-pressure job like Rangers makes him an intriguing option for the club.

Kevin Muscat (33/1) – Outsider with Rangers Knowledge

Kevin Muscat, the former Rangers defender with managerial experience in Australia and Japan, is an outsider for the role but has been mentioned frequently in media speculation. Muscat has established himself as a strong managerial force in both Australia and Japan, winning titles with Melbourne Victory and Yokohama F. Marinos. His high-intensity style of play and his deep understanding of Rangers’ culture make him a potentially intriguing fit for the club.

However, his odds suggest he is seen as a long shot compared to the leading favourites.

Next Rangers Manager – Other Names in the Frame

Along with the top five favourites, several other high-profile names have been linked with the Rangers job. These individuals, though not necessarily among the leading candidates, continue to be discussed in media circles and betting markets.

Steven Gerrard – A Familiar Face

Steven Gerrard, who led Rangers to an unbeaten league title in the 2020/21 season, is still a prominent name in the race. Despite mixed spells at Aston Villa and Al Ettifaq, Gerrard remains beloved at Ibrox due to his history with the club. His understanding of Rangers’ culture and the expectations surrounding the job could make him an ideal fit.

However, lifestyle and family considerations may mean he opts out of the race this time around, leaving a possible future at Rangers doubtful.

Barry Ferguson – A Club Legend

Barry Ferguson, a former Rangers captain and club legend, has been discussed as a potential candidate despite the board’s decision not to offer him the permanent role after his interim spell. Ferguson has previous managerial experience at Clyde and Alloa Athletic and continues to be respected for his leadership and connection to the club.

His odds remain relatively short as he could still be considered for a position that embodies the club’s traditions and values, but with new owners, a full reboot seems much more likely in our opinion.

Jose Mourinho – The Superstar Coach

Jose Mourinho is the most high-profile name in the mix. A serial winner at top clubs like Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and Roma, Mourinho’s pedigree is undeniable. Though his wage demands and preference for managing in top-tier European competitions may be obstacles, his arrival at Ibrox would be a sensational coup.

Despite his previous comments when he didn’t dismiss speculation, there is no concrete evidence of advanced talks, and Mourinho remains a distant prospect for the Rangers job.

The Outsiders

While not among the top five candidates, several other names have been floated in media reports and betting markets. These candidates may still have an outside chance, depending on how the managerial search progresses.

Wayne Rooney: The former England international has seen his odds lengthen significantly after mixed spells as a manager at Derby and D.C. United. Despite his high profile, he is now viewed as a distant contender.

Frank Lampard: After his time at Chelsea and now boss at Coventry City, Lampard has remained a speculative option for the Rangers job. However, his odds have also drifted, and his chances seem slim.

Brian Priske: The Danish coach, formerly of Feyenoord, has held talks with Rangers and impressed with his European experience. Though his odds have dropped, Priske remains a potential dark horse in the race.

Danny Rohl: Currently the manager of Sheffield Wednesday, Rohl has earned praise for his work in the Championship. Despite recent speculation, his odds of landing the job have fallen, but he is still considered an outsider.

What’s Next for Rangers?

As the start of the season rapidly approaches, Rangers are expected to make an announcement soon. The decision will shape the future of the club under the new regime, with supporters eagerly awaiting the appointment of a bold, forward-thinking manager.

With five leading contenders—Davide Ancelotti, Russell Martin, Marco Rose, Francesco Farioli, and Kevin Muscat—and other names like Steven Gerrard, Barry Ferguson, and Jose Mourinho still in the conversation, the Ibrox hierarchy are expected to make their choice in the coming days, with the future direction of the club at stake.

The arrival of a new manager could mark the beginning of a new era at Rangers, one aimed at challenging Celtic’s dominance in Scottish football.