Steven Gerrard has withdrawn from the running to become Rangers' next manager, opting to remain with his family in the Middle East. The Liverpool legend did hold talks to return to Ibrox less than four years after leaving the Scottish titans to join Premier League side Aston Villa.
The Liverpool icon had a triumphant three-year stint in Glasgow, marking his first managerial role. Gerrard led Rangers to their first Scottish Premiership title since the club's liquidation in 2012.
And Philippe Clement's dismissal earlier this year, Gerrard was touted as a potential successor to the Belgian. However, former Rangers skipper Barry Ferguson was appointed on an interim basis, with the club deciding to reassess the situation at season's end, following Celtic's title win.
Now that time has arrived, and Gerrard's name was still in the mix. Former Rangers chairman Dave King personally endorsed the ex-England international for the job, over Davide Ancelotti, Carlo's son, and Russell Martin, who was let go by Southampton in December.
However, it appears Gerrard has other ideas. The Record reports that the 44-year-old is struggling to persuade his wife, Alex, to leave their plush residence in Bahrain.
In 2023, Gerrard and his family relocated to the Middle East when he took up the managerial role at Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq. He stepped down from this position in January and recently engaged in preliminary discussions with Rangers' top brass before requesting additional time to contemplate a return to the UK.
Former Rangers and Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard has been linked with the job
(Image: PA)
Now, the couple have opted to remain in Bahrain for at least another year. It's believed that their decision isn't motivated by tax considerations, as Gerrard is now exempt from a multi-million pound HMRC penalty on the earnings he accrued during his tenure in the Saudi Pro League.
Gerrard will be part of the TNT Sports coverage of the Champions League final on Saturday. The UK rights holder has involved the former Liverpool captain having previously had him as a regular pundit.
Earlier this week, Gerrard was back at Anfield to see Virgil van Dijk lift the Premier League trophy. He then attended the parade the following day and expressed his shock at the major incident that unfolded on Water Street.
"Shocked, sickened and saddened at the incident we all witnessed in our city last night," Gerrard wrote on Instagram. "My thoughts and prayers go out to all the people involved and their families."
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Earlier today, Merseyside Police charged Paul Doyle, 53 from West Derby, Liverpool, with dangerous driving, causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, wounding with intent to cause GBH and attempted GBH.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing. "Prosecutors and police are continuing to work at pace to review a huge volume of evidence," Sarah Hammond, Chief Crown Prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service Mersey-Cheshire, said.
"This includes multiple pieces of video footage and numerous witness statements. It is important to ensure every victim gets the justice they deserve."
Liverpool.com says: Gerrard's next move will be an interesting one. Rangers made a lot of sense but it seems that he will be taking a bit more time out before returning.