Barry Ferguson warns that the Rangers manager role in Glasgow demands instant success and not a learning curve for rookie bosses like Davide Ancelotti

Barry Ferguson warns that the Rangers manager role in Glasgow demands instant success and not a learning curve for rookie bosses like Davide Ancelotti

As the end of the season approaches, tension is building around who will take the reins at Rangers.

Speculation is swirling, but interim boss Barry Ferguson has made it crystal clear—this job isn’t for someone looking to “learn on the job.”

It’s a high-pressure role that demands immediate success.

Davide Ancelotti: A Surprising Name in the Mix

The latest buzz links Rangers to Davide Ancelotti, son of legendary Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti.

Spanish media reports claim the 35-year-old assistant coach has even been approached by the club.

While Rangers have publicly downplayed the idea that Ancelotti Jr. has been offered the position, they haven’t ruled him out either.

Ancelotti has worked closely with his father at some of Europe’s biggest clubs—Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Napoli, and Everton—but he’s never been the main man himself.

That lack of first-team management experience has left many Rangers fans uneasy.

Ferguson Responds to the Rumors

Ferguson, speaking candidly, admitted he doesn’t know much about Davide Ancelotti.

“I know he’s been his dad’s assistant, and his dad’s one of the best in the game,” he said.

“But honestly, I don’t know anything about him personally.”

However, Ferguson wasn’t shy about the demands of the job.

“This is not a project. You need to start winning straight away. That’s just the reality of managing Rangers,” he insisted.

He pointed out that the manager won’t get much of a grace period: “You’ve got one summer to build your squad and then you’re expected to hit the ground running.”

No Room for Trial and Error at Rangers

Ferguson emphasized that Rangers is a club built on a winning legacy, and any new manager must be ready to carry that torch immediately.

“We’ve seen too many managers come and go because they couldn’t meet expectations. This isn’t a job for experimenting—it’s about delivering trophies.”

He also stressed that everyone involved—supporters, decision-makers, and potential new owners—understands the urgency.

“It’s a huge task, but it’s also a fantastic opportunity. We need to start seeing things take shape soon.”

Ancelotti a Risk Too Far? Simon Jordan Thinks So

Simon Jordan, former Crystal Palace chairman and regular pundit, chimed in on the Ancelotti rumors during a segment on talkSPORT. He didn’t hold back. “The question isn’t just whether Ancelotti can manage—it’s whether he can take on Celtic and win. That’s what Rangers need.”

Jordan drew comparisons with other assistants who failed to thrive as head coaches. “Look at Paul Clement—great assistant, but when he stepped up as manager, it didn’t work.”

His main concern is the gamble involved in appointing someone with no proven track record as a front-line boss. “Unless Ancelotti Jr. walks in and completely blows you away with his vision and leadership, I don’t see the upside to this risk.”

What’s the Plan Moving Forward?

Rangers insiders insist the hiring process is still in its early phases. The club is waiting for new sporting director Kevin Thelwell to officially start before ramping up recruitment efforts. So, any talk of Ancelotti being on the verge of taking over is premature.

Ferguson, who remains focused on preparing the team for their next match against Dundee United, said he expects updates in the coming days. “There’s a lot that needs to be figured out—players out of contract, loan players returning, pre-season planning. We need clarity soon.”

While he kept details about his own future private, Ferguson confirmed things are starting to move behind the scenes. “We should have a much clearer picture of what direction the club is going in within the next few days or weeks.”