Kevin Muscat to Rangers deal became impossible for one key reason as alternatives already considered

Kevin Muscat to Rangers deal became impossible for one key reason as alternatives already considered

Rangers’ Manager Search Continues After Kevin Muscat Talks Collapse

Rangers are back on the hunt for a new manager after advanced talks with Kevin Muscat broke down.

The Ibrox hierarchy had been confident of appointing the Shanghai Port boss as Russell Martin’s successor, with negotiations reaching an advanced stage. However, sources inside the club say Muscat’s reluctance to leave China before the end of the Super League season made the deal unworkable.

The 52-year-old is just three matches away from securing a league title with Shanghai Port and wanted to see out the campaign. With the season not concluding until December, Rangers concluded that waiting that long for his arrival would not suit either party.

After an initial meeting with American owners Andrew Cavenagh and Paraag Marathe, discussions had progressed well, and Muscat appeared close to agreeing terms. But after a subsequent round of talks with CEO Patrick Stewart, sporting director Kevin Thelwell, and 49ers Enterprises advisor Gretar Steinsson, an agreement could not be finalised.

As a result, Rangers have now restarted their managerial search.

Other Candidates Considered

Muscat was not the only name on Rangers’ shortlist. Steven Gerrard had been an early frontrunner and met with senior figures in London but later withdrew himself from contention.

Following that, the club explored several other options, including German coach Danny Röhl, who was also in discussions before pulling out once Muscat emerged as the preferred choice.

Rangers were optimistic about securing Muscat’s signature and believed a broad agreement had been reached. But on Sunday, talks officially collapsed when the Australian decided to remain with Shanghai Port, where he still has a year left on his contract.

Despite the setback, Rangers maintain that Muscat was never their sole target and that alternative candidates have been under continuous consideration.

Interim Management and What’s Next

In the meantime, youth coach Steven Smith took charge of the team for Saturday’s 2–2 Premiership draw with Dundee United at Ibrox. He will also prepare the squad for Thursday’s Europa League clash against Brann Bergen in Norway, though it remains unclear whether he will be in the dugout for that game.

Rangers’ leadership, led by Kevin Thelwell, is now working to identify and appoint a new permanent manager as soon as possible, with hopes of making progress in the coming days.