Michael Stewart anticipates a number of incomings if the San Francisco 49ers finalize their acquisition of the Rangers.
Gers hired Barry Ferguson on an interim basis, pushing the permanent appointment further down the line.
David Wagner and Derek McInnes have both been mentioned as prospective signings for the club in the summer.
Steven Gerrard may not be the best option for Rangers in the summer
Stewart concedes that the NFL franchise’s owners may search for better alternatives to Steven Gerrard, who has also been linked with a return to Ibrox.
He believes that it will be difficult to rebuild a side under Gerrard if the budget is not very large.
The former Hearts midfielder believes the 49ers will look for a headliner.
On February 24, he told Premier Sports Football Club, “The most important thing for Rangers is to get that 49ers investment arm takeover, because that is what will give them the foundation to truly compete.” You could bring Steven Gerrard back as much as you want, but if you are trying to grow on a declining budget within the squad, it is very, very tough.
“The most significant thing now is the 49ers’ investing arm. When they have that and everything else behind the scenes in order, you can bring in the figurehead.
“I don’t think many of those people will be brought in if the 49ers’ financial arm becomes involved. “They’ll be looking for a headliner.”
Patrick Stewart must spread his management scouting net far and broad.
Stewart’s statement that the 49ers Enterprises will seek a high-profile managerial appointment at Ibrox if they are successful in their purchase coincides with the club’s need to raise its goals.
The 49ers, with their huge riches and NFL management expertise, bring financial muscle and strategic vision that the Rangers have lacked in previous years.
Gerrard, while famous for ending Celtic’s supremacy by winning the Scottish Premiership in 2021, is not the pinnacle of managerial talent.
His following spell at Aston Villa had mixed results, and there are more experienced managers who may provide greater tactical nous and long-term success.
This is why Patrick Stewart should throw his scouting net far and wide, rather than settling for local names or those that are conveniently available.
| Team | Position | Points |
| Celtic | 1st | 69 |
| Rangers | 2nd | 56 |
| Aberdeen | 3rd | 41 |
| Dundee United | 4th | 37 |
Rangers’ investment from the 49ers has the potential to transform the club into a club with a competitive budget not only in Scotland but also in Europe, making it an appealing project for a top manager.
The ideal appointment would signal intent, boost fan morale, and maximize the squad’s potential, particularly when combined with improved recruitment.
Settling for nostalgia with Gerrard risks stagnation, whereas a bold hire may maximize on the 49ers’ resources to rival Celtic locally and create waves continental.
It’s a practical move for a club seeking long-term success.
