Davide Ancelotti Poised to Take Helm at Rangers FC
Davide Ancelotti, son of legendary manager Carlo Ancelotti, is reportedly on the verge of becoming the new manager of Rangers Football Club. The 35-year-old, who has served as his father’s assistant at top clubs including Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Napoli, and Everton, is now ready to embark on his own managerial journey.
Ancelotti has emerged as a leading candidate among a shortlist that includes Russell Martin, Steven Gerrard, and Brian Priske. Preliminary talks have been held in London, with further discussions expected soon. Currently on vacation, Ancelotti is prepared to return and finalize terms if selected.
Beyond his professional qualifications, Ancelotti has personal ties to Scotland. His mother, Luisa Gibellini, had Scottish relatives living in Penicuik near Edinburgh. These connections were acknowledged by Carlo Ancelotti ahead of a Champions League match between AC Milan and Celtic, where he noted the support of his Scottish family members.
Ancelotti’s potential appointment comes as Rangers undergo significant changes following a disappointing season. Six first-team players have left the club, indicating a broad restructuring as Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises prepare to finalize a takeover. Departures include Ianis Hagi, Leon Balogun, and Tom Lawrence, whose contracts expired, as well as loan players Vaclav Cerny, Rafael Fernandes, and Neraysho Kasanwirjo.
While Ancelotti is considered a top contender, his father, Carlo Ancelotti, confirmed that Davide is in discussions with other clubs about becoming a head coach. One previous link was with Como, though that possibility faded when Cesc Fàbregas remained their coach.
Rangers supporters have shown enthusiastic support for Ancelotti’s potential arrival, expressing their excitement on social media as he shared vacation photos on Instagram. Meanwhile, US businessman Andrew Cavenagh, associated with the expected 49ers Enterprises takeover of Rangers, is reportedly traveling to Europe to play a crucial role in finalizing the club’s new manager. The selection process is nearing completion with final candidate interviews underway.
If appointed, Ancelotti plans to bring a specialized backroom team to Ibrox. Notably, he has approached Croatia’s Luka Modrić, who will leave Real Madrid after their FIFA Club World Cup campaign, about moving to Rangers. Modrić did not dismiss the idea.
Ancelotti’s appointment would mark a fresh start for Rangers as they look ahead to a new era. With his extensive experience and personal ties to Scotland, Ancelotti could provide the leadership needed to guide the club back to success.