Ally McCoist On The Rangers Job That Got Away: Parallels With Gerrard's Reign

3 min read Post on Mar 13, 2025

Ally McCoist on the Rangers Job That Got Away: Parallels with Gerrard's Reign

Ally McCoist's near-miss appointment as Rangers manager in 2011 continues to fascinate football fans, especially given the trajectory of Steven Gerrard's more recent tenure. The "what ifs" surrounding McCoist's potential appointment resonate strongly, highlighting striking parallels and stark contrasts with Gerrard's ultimately successful, yet ultimately short-lived, reign at Ibrox. This article delves into the similarities and differences, exploring the complex factors that shaped both managerial appointments and their respective outcomes.

The Missed Opportunity of 2011: A Look Back

The 2011 appointment of Ally McCoist as Rangers manager almost happened. The club legend, deeply embedded in the Rangers fabric, seemed the natural successor to Walter Smith. However, a series of boardroom decisions ultimately led to the appointment of another manager. This decision, shrouded in a degree of uncertainty, left McCoist with a burning desire to lead his beloved club. This near-miss highlights the unpredictable nature of football management and the often-unseen forces at play behind the scenes.

Gerrard's Arrival and the Highs and Lows

Fast forward to 2018, and Steven Gerrard, a Liverpool legend, arrived at Ibrox with considerable fanfare. His appointment represented a significant shift in the club's managerial approach, moving away from the traditional route of appointing someone steeped in Rangers history. Gerrard's tenure delivered a long-awaited Scottish Premiership title, ending Celtic's dominance. However, his departure for Aston Villa in 2021 left a void, despite his undeniable success.

Key Parallels Between McCoist and Gerrard's Potential Rangers Roles

Several key parallels exist between the two potential managerial scenarios. Both McCoist and Gerrard possessed immense club loyalty and a deep understanding of the passionate fanbase. Both also brought a wealth of experience from high-profile playing careers. This connection with the supporters and the understanding of the inherent pressures of the Rangers job are crucial aspects often overlooked.

Deep-rooted Club Connections: Both managers enjoyed iconic playing careers at their respective clubs. This fostered a strong connection with fans and an intimate knowledge of the club's culture and expectations.
Pressure and Expectations: The intense scrutiny and high expectations surrounding the Rangers managerial position are undeniable. Both McCoist and Gerrard would have felt this pressure acutely.
Success in Different Contexts: While Gerrard achieved significant on-field success, McCoist's success would likely have been measured against different benchmarks, potentially given the different financial and off-field landscape that existed during his time.

Key Differences: Management Styles and Timing

Despite the similarities, crucial differences exist. Gerrard arrived with a more modern, tactical approach honed through his experience working under Jürgen Klopp. McCoist's style was arguably more steeped in traditional Scottish football methods. The timing of each potential appointment also played a significant role. The club's financial difficulties in 2011 contrasted sharply with the more stable environment of 2018.

Tactical Approach: Gerrard brought a more analytical and data-driven approach, while McCoist’s style might have been more instinctual.
Financial Landscape: The Rangers financial situation drastically changed between 2011 and 2018, creating very different circumstances for each manager.

Conclusion: A Story of What Might Have Been

The "Ally McCoist at Rangers" scenario remains a compelling "what if" in Scottish football history. Comparing his potential appointment to Gerrard's actual tenure highlights the complexities of managerial appointments and the impact of timing, circumstance, and managerial style. While Gerrard's success was undeniable, the possibility of McCoist leading Rangers remains a source of debate and speculation among fans and pundits alike, a testament to the enduring legacy of both men at Ibrox. Ultimately, it underscores the unpredictable nature of football management and the profound impact of decisions made both on and off the pitch.