Becoming a grandparent can change your perspective on everything — and for Steven Gerrard, that seems to be exactly what’s happening.
The former England and Liverpool captain is spending more time with family these days, proudly stepping into his new role as a grandfather while keeping his next football move on hold.
A New Arrival Brings Joy to the Gerrard Family
In July, Gerrard’s eldest daughter, Lilly-Ella, welcomed her first child — a baby girl — marking a special new chapter for the family.
The 21-year-old influencer shared a touching black-and-white photo on Instagram, showing her boyfriend Lee Byrne leaving the hospital with their newborn safely strapped into a car seat.
Her sweet caption read simply, “@leebyrne8 2 becomes 3.”
The news first broke back in January when Lilly announced her pregnancy with a photo of her positive test and the caption, “Our little secret.
The best news… mini us is on the way.” Gerrard couldn’t hide his excitement then, responding proudly: “We can’t wait. Congratulations and we love you.”
Gerrard Becomes a Grandfather at 45
At just 45 years old, Gerrard joined the ranks of footballing grandads — a milestone that’s made fans across the country feel a little nostalgic.
The former Liverpool legend shares four children with his wife, Alex, including daughters Lilly (21), Lexie (19), Lourdes (14), and their youngest, Lio (8).
Recently, Gerrard shared a heartwarming photo of himself cradling his granddaughter on Instagram, giving his 11.6 million followers a rare glimpse into his personal life.
He didn’t add a caption — the picture said everything on its own.
Turning Down a Return to Management
While Gerrard is clearly enjoying time with his growing family, he’s also been in the headlines for another reason — his decision to turn down the chance to return to Rangers.
The Scottish club, where he famously won the Premiership title in 2021, had reportedly been in talks with Gerrard earlier this month about replacing Russell Martin as manager.
He met with Rangers officials in London and expressed interest in the role, but according to reports, he wanted more control over player transfers if he were to make a comeback.
In the end, Gerrard decided to step away from negotiations, citing family reasons — particularly the fact that his loved ones are still based in Bahrain, where they settled during his coaching spell with Saudi club Al-Ettifaq.
Why Family Life Comes First for Gerrard
Sources close to Gerrard suggest that family stability played a big role in his decision.
After his time in Saudi Arabia didn’t go as planned, the Gerrards remained abroad, and the idea of uprooting them again wasn’t appealing.
Discussions with Rangers are said to have ended on good terms, leaving the door open for future collaboration — but for now, Gerrard seems content focusing on being a hands-on dad and new grandad.
A Complicated Connection to a Notorious Name
Lilly’s partner, Lee Byrne, made headlines of his own in the past — not for his actions, but because of his family background.
Lee is the son of Liam Byrne, a convicted Irish gangster linked to the Kinahan Cartel.
Liam Byrne was sentenced to five and a half years in prison for a plot to stockpile machine guns alongside an associate, Shaun Kent.
Court proceedings revealed the stash was part of a failed attempt by Byrne’s brother-in-law, Kavanagh, to reduce his own sentence by helping authorities find the weapons.
The imported arsenal included a Skorpion submachine gun, the same type used in tragic shootings on Merseyside.
It’s important to note that there is no suggestion whatsoever that Lee Byrne or any member of the Gerrard family are involved in any criminal activity.
What’s Next for the Liverpool Legend?
For now, Gerrard seems to be relishing a slower pace of life — enjoying grandparenthood, family time, and perhaps a bit of reflection.
But given his passion for football, fans believe it’s only a matter of time before he’s back in the dugout.
Whether that happens in the UK, abroad, or even at Rangers again someday, one thing’s certain — Steven Gerrard will always have football in his blood.