NafisaMany managers in recent football history have earned a top job by impressing in an interim role. If Barry Ferguson can guide Rangers to a strong finish this season, the Ibrox hierarchy could face a tough decision.
Ross McCormack, who played alongside Ferguson early in his career, believes the former Rangers captain could be given the permanent role if he leads the team deep into the Europa League and secures a statement victory over Celtic in mid-March.
A club legend stepping in to replace an unpopular manager and revitalizing a struggling side—could Ferguson become Rangers’ own version of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer?
For now, however, all indications suggest the club is looking for a full-time replacement for Philippe Clement in the summer. It’s worth noting that Ferguson has not held a managerial position for an extended period since his unsuccessful spell at Alloa Athletic in 2022.
When it comes to permanent appointments, Steven Gerrard has been linked with a return to the club he led to a league title four years ago, though that possibility seems unlikely.
Andy Halliday has backed former Southampton boss Russell Martin, believing his possession-based philosophy could resolve Rangers’ long-standing struggles against defensive low blocks. Meanwhile, Ferguson himself spoke highly of Derek McInnes ahead of Rangers’ 4-2 comeback win over Kilmarnock.
David Wagner Emerges as a Surprise Contender
One name that has quietly entered the conversation is David Wagner.
Blackburn Rovers’ Decision Could Pave the Way for Wagner
The former Huddersfield Town, Schalke, Young Boys, and Norwich City manager is currently available following his departure after Leeds United ended his play-off hopes last year.
Reports indicate that Rangers have placed Wagner on their early shortlist. If they decide to pursue him, Blackburn Rovers’ appointment of Valerien Ismael south of the border could make negotiations easier.
Earlier this week, Blackburn had reportedly narrowed their search to either Wagner or Ismael. Now that ex-West Brom boss Ismael has secured a three-year contract—following John Eustace’s move to Derby County—Wagner remains available and awaiting his next opportunity.
Pep Guardiola Once Hailed Wagner’s Managerial Talent
Starting as a youth coach at Borussia Dortmund, Wagner gained recognition for guiding Huddersfield Town to their first-ever Premier League promotion despite working with a significantly smaller budget than many of their competitors.
Even more impressively, he kept Huddersfield in the Premier League in 2018, playing a crucial role in the top-flight development of players like Aaron Mooy, Philip Billing, and Matthias Jorgensen.
“First of all, a big compliment to Wagner for what he has done in the club; Promoted and an incredible season [to avoid the drop],” Pep Guardiola said in 2019 after Wagner’s departure from Huddersfield.
“He did an incredible job because in the circumstances it’s not easy to compete in the Premier League with the players they have.”
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