Closer than ever’ – Fabrizio Romano confirms Liverpool legend advancing talks over return to ex-club

Steven Gerrard Set for Sensational Rangers Return as Talks with Club Owners Advance Rapidly 🔵

Steven Gerrard’s name is back in the headlines—and this time, it’s not for a charity match or pundit appearance. According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the Liverpool legend is now “closer than ever” to making a stunning return to Rangers, the club where his managerial career truly began to shine.

Talks between Gerrard and Rangers’ American owners, 49ers Enterprises, are progressing quickly, with both sides eager to make the reunion happen. For fans in Glasgow, it feels like a dream comeback—the return of the man who brought pride, discipline, and silverware back to Ibrox.

The Road Back to Ibrox

It’s been nearly four years since Gerrard left Rangers for Aston Villa, following a glittering first spell that saw him win the Scottish Premiership title in 2021—ending Celtic’s hopes of ten-in-a-row and completing an invincible season with 102 points.

During 193 games in charge, Gerrard recorded 125 wins, restored belief to a struggling club, and rekindled the fierce identity that had been lost in the years following Rangers’ financial collapse. His achievements earned him multiple Manager of the Year awards, as well as the admiration of fans across Scotland and beyond.

But his move to Aston Villa—and later to Saudi side Al-Ettifaq—didn’t go as planned. Villa dismissed him after just 13 wins in 40 games, and his brief spell in Saudi Arabia ended by mutual consent. Since January, Gerrard has been out of management, using the time to reflect, recalibrate, and prepare for the right opportunity.

Perfect Timing for a Return

Following Russell Martin’s dismissal after a poor start to the season, Rangers quickly began their search for a new boss. Although several names—including Sean Dyche—were linked, Dyche reportedly declined interest, leaving Gerrard as the overwhelming favorite.

In a recent interview with Rio Ferdinand, Gerrard hinted that he was ready to return to management, saying:

“I’d love another go. I’ve learned a lot and want to come back fresh—with the right people around me.”

Those words now appear prophetic. Romano reports that “positive discussions” have already taken place, with a meeting scheduled between Gerrard and the Rangers board to finalize terms.

A Reunion Full of Meaning

Gerrard’s possible return carries deep symbolism. When he first arrived in 2018, Rangers were in disarray—financially fragile and living in Celtic’s shadow. He gave them belief again. Now, the situation feels eerily similar: the team trails Celtic by nine points and desperately needs direction.

For 49ers Enterprises, Gerrard represents both a footballing and commercial opportunity. His global profile as a Liverpool and England legend could enhance Rangers’ international brand, while his proven ability to motivate players and restore pride makes him the ideal candidate to steady the ship.

For Gerrard, this is more than a job—it’s a shot at redemption. His time at Villa and Al-Ettifaq may have dented his reputation, but returning to Rangers offers a familiar environment where he once thrived. He knows the culture, the expectations, and the intensity of the Ibrox crowd—and he understands what it takes to win there.

What It Means for Rangers and Gerrard

Rangers’ squad faces challenges: limited finances, lack of depth, and fierce competition from Celtic. Yet, Gerrard has overcome such odds before. His first title-winning campaign proved his tactical acumen and emotional leadership. Doing it again would only reinforce his legacy—not just in Scotland, but across European football.

Liverpool fans are also watching closely. Gerrard’s managerial journey has always been followed with special interest at Anfield, where many still see him as a potential future successor to Jurgen Klopp. A successful second stint at Rangers could reignite that narrative.

The Story of a Homecoming

As Romano put it, Gerrard’s Rangers return is “closer than ever.” Talks are positive, excitement is growing, and social media is flooded with clips of his iconic celebrations and that unforgettable 2020–21 campaign.

If the deal is sealed, Gerrard’s comeback will be about more than tactics or trophies—it will be about unfinished business. The man who once lifted Rangers out of darkness could soon walk through the Ibrox gates again, ready to rebuild, ready to inspire, and ready to finish what he started.

Because in football, sometimes the greatest stories aren’t about new beginnings—they’re about coming home.