Rangers management announcement: Danny Rohl named head coach

Danny Rohl expressed that it is «a significant honor» to be appointed head coach of Rangers and he is prepared to face the «high expectations» of the club’s supporters.

The selection of the former Sheffield Wednesday manager concludes a lengthy search.

Rangers dismissed Russell Martin after 17 matches on 5 October and engaged in unfruitful discussions with past manager Steven Gerrard, Rohl as well as former Ibrox defender Kevin Muscat.

The collapse of negotiations with Muscat, who is nearly clinching the Super League title in China with Shanghai Port, brought Rohl’s name back into consideration and the 36-year-old has inked an initial two-and-a-half-year contract.

«It is a significant honor at an amazing club, acknowledged globally,» remarked the German.

«I realize it has been a tough beginning to the season, but there remains so much to compete for.

«The expectations here are evident. The supporters expect to witness outcomes quickly – my mindset and experience align with that thought.

«We have no time to spare. We commence immediately. I understand that trust must be earned and recognize that we must instill confidence in our supporters through our performance on the pitch from the onset.»

Rangers currently stand sixth in the Scottish Premiership with one victory from eight matches, facing Brann in the Europa League at 17:45 BST on Thursday.

Rohl managed Wednesday from October 2023 until July 2025 after previously holding coaching positions with RB Leipzig, Southampton, Bayern Munich, and Germany.

Title-winning manager Gerrard removed himself from the selection last weekend, stating the timing was not suitable for his return.

Rohl then withdrew, prompting Rangers to engage in advanced discussions with Australian Muscat, yet the prospective delayed onset of his tenure rendered the agreement unfeasible for both sides.

Rangers chairman Andrew Cavenagh recognized the recent arduous phase for the club – during which the board faced criticism from supporters for the prolonged manager search – but stated that Rohl can «bring back pride and eventually success».

«Danny’s expertise at a high level, in demanding environments, positions him as an excellent fit for what we anticipate here,» remarked Cavenagh.

«We acknowledge that the last few months have been tough, but our priority has consistently been to find the right individual, one who is poised to quickly integrate into this football club and meet its expectations.

«Danny left an impression on us with his vision, character, and comprehension of what Rangers represents. We are confident he can assist in regaining pride, momentum, and ultimately success.»

Rohl, who departed Wednesday by mutual agreement in the summer, successfully avoided relegation with the troubled South Yorkshire club on two occasions.

He secured 12th place in the Championship during his sole full season in charge – a remarkable feat considering Wednesday’s financial hardships.

Rangers vice-chairman Paraag Marathe stated the club has undergone «a comprehensive process to guarantee the right person was identified» and praised Rohl’s «tactical acumen and determination».

Former Southampton manager Martin was let go while Rangers occupied eighth position in the league, trailing by nine points to champions Celtic and eleven to leaders Hearts.

They now find themselves eight points behind a struggling Celtic and thirteen behind Hearts.

Rangers also failed to secure Champions League qualification under Martin and lost both of their Europa League matches.

Rohl assured Rangers supporters that he is prepared to meet the expectations of fans who have seen Celtic’s dominance – accumulating 12 titles in 13 years – in recent history.

«The expectations are massive and I relish this opportunity because I hold high standards for myself and the team as well,» he stated.

«Rangers is built on a foundation of hard work, unity, and achievement. That is precisely what you will receive from me and what I desire my team to exemplify for all of you.

«I am eager to connect with the squad and commence work ahead of Thursday’s match against Brann.»