Steven Gerrard says he was “very close” to rejoining Rangers as manager but declined the offer because the situation was “not perfect.”
Steven Gerrard has confirmed he came “very close” to returning as Rangers manager but ultimately turned down the opportunity, citing timing and family reasons.
The former Ibrox boss held discussions with the Scottish Premiership club after Russell Martin’s sacking but decided to withdraw. “I had some really positive and interesting talks with the owners,” Gerrard told TNT Sports. “But it felt a bit rushed. I had a lot to think about and a short space of time to give a decision.”
Gerrard, who led Rangers to the 2020-21 league title, said his “heart was 100% there” but added, “for me to take that on again it had to be perfect and I had to be 100% ready.”
The 45-year-old, now based in Bahrain, dismissed suggestions that he rejected the job over Rangers’ management structure. “The timing wasn’t right from a family point of view,” he said. “I’ve got that much respect for Rangers that I wouldn’t go in there if I was 80-90% ready.”