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.
McCoistโs Perspective on Sterling
Speaking on talkSPORT, McCoist was asked whether Raheem Sterlingโcurrently out of favour at Chelseaโmight 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 29โyearโold 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 clubโs new coach, Enzo Maresca. Furthermore, financial propositions from the Middle East make a UK exit more compelling.
> โBrendan knows him, but I think heโd see it as a step downโฆ I think if heโs leaving the country, heโs going to Saudi Arabia.โ
Why a Move to Rangers Is Unlikely
1. Competitive StepโDown
McCoist emphasizes that a move to Scottish football wouldnโt 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 ยฃ300K a week. Rangers simply couldn’t match that wageโa key limiting factor.
3. Broader Transfer Strategy
Amid the clubโs financial overhaul under new ownership, Ibrox has prioritized careful recruitment over marquee signingsโfocusing on budget balance and sustainability.
The Saudi Factor
Sterlingโs 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 Rangersโnoting 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 Rangersโ ability to land high-profile mentors. For Henderson, a more intimate fit seemed plausible; for Sterling, it doesnโt.
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
Rangersโ transfer strategy continues to focus on smart financial planning and sustainable recruitmentโnot headline signings
While fans may dream of Ibrox delivering a marquee name like Sterling, McCoistโs grounded perspective reminds us how footballing ambitions often collide with economic realities. If Sterlingโs next move happens, expect it to be bold, lucrativeโand likely not under the Ibrox floodlights.