Ally McCoist has weighed in on swirling rumours linking Raheem Sterling with a move to Rangers amid credible chatter surrounding the former Chelsea and Manchester City winger’s future.
His fresh remarks add clarity to speculation that has gripped Scottish football fans, offering well-grounded insight rooted in direct experience.
McCoist’s Perspective on Sterling
Speaking on talkSPORT, McCoist was asked whether Raheem Sterling—currently out of favour at Chelsea—might consider a move to Ibrox.
McCoist dismissed the idea, saying Sterling would view a move to Rangers (or Celtic) as a “step-down.” Instead, he believes the 29‑year‑old is more likely to pursue a move abroad, most notably to the Saudi Pro League.
His analysis is grounded in context: Sterling is currently on big wages at Chelsea but has been marginalized by the club’s new coach, Enzo Maresca. Furthermore, financial propositions from the Middle East make a UK exit more compelling.
> “Brendan knows him, but I think he’d see it as a step down… I think if he’s leaving the country, he’s going to Saudi Arabia.”
Why a Move to Rangers Is Unlikely
1. Competitive Step‑Down
McCoist emphasizes that a move to Scottish football wouldn’t match Sterling’s ambitions or current status. With Premier League and Middle East options more lucrative, Rangers struggle to compete financially and competitively.
2. Wage Disparity
Sterling reportedly earns around £300K a week. Rangers simply couldn’t match that wage—a key limiting factor.
3. Broader Transfer Strategy
Amid the club’s financial overhaul under new ownership, Ibrox has prioritized careful recruitment over marquee signings—focusing on budget balance and sustainability.
The Saudi Factor
Sterling’s future looks increasingly tied to a move abroad. With Saudi clubs aggressively recruiting big names, McCoist believes this route is far more plausible than a Scottish venture. Reducing wage burdens, while offering prestige signings, makes Saudi Arabia a sensible option for stars like Sterling.
That said, Reddit fans echo a pragmatic sentiment: Sterling may prefer top-flight playing time over a high-paying bench role, possibly tilting towards mid-table Premier League or other European clubs . But if big money is the priority, Saudi remains a strong bet.
Transfer Rumours: Sterling vs Henderson
McCoist isn’t new to transfer speculation. Earlier in the summer, he addressed rumours linking Jordan Henderson to Rangers—noting the potential for a player-coach role but admitting his limited knowledge of those discussions.
Now with Sterling in the spotlight, his comments illustrate a recurring theme: questions remain about Rangers’ ability to land high-profile mentors. For Henderson, a more intimate fit seemed plausible; for Sterling, it doesn’t.
Final Take
Ally McCoist flatly rejects Sterling-to-Rangers links, citing wage gaps and perceived competitive misalignment
Saudi Pro League is the more probable landing spot for Sterling, aligning with financial incentives
Rangers’ transfer strategy continues to focus on smart financial planning and sustainable recruitment—not headline signings
While fans may dream of Ibrox delivering a marquee name like Sterling, McCoist’s grounded perspective reminds us how footballing ambitions often collide with economic realities. If Sterling’s next move happens, expect it to be bold, lucrative—and likely not under the Ibrox floodlights.