There could be another reason for unemployed manager Steven Gerrard to turn down the Rangers job, which could delay his return to coaching in England
Steven Gerrard is set to return to management in England but won’t be looking for a job until April. That’s because if he returns early, he could have to set aside around £10m due to tax laws.
The Liverpool icon must remain abroad for the entire tax year after leaving Al Etifaq in January to ensure his income remains tax-free. If Gerrard makes a full return before the spring, he will have to repay up to 45% of his income.
Gerrard can return to the UK within 91 days of a tax year. It has been noted that his assistant Michael Beale is also in a similar situation after leaving the Saudi club along with Gerrard.
The former England midfielder has been linked with multiple jobs and was close to grabbing a spot on Rangers’ radar. Gerrard has decided not to return to the club where he went unbeaten and won the Scottish Premiership title.
The 45-year-old reportedly had some reluctance to work under Rangers’ sporting organization. Sporting director Kevin Thelwell has since left Ibrox, but Gerrard’s concerns were a lack of control.
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Speaking after Danny Rolle was appointed Rangers manager, Gerrard said his decision to avoid the job was due to timing. “We’re very close when it comes to Rangers. We’ve had some really positive and interesting conversations with the owners,” he told TNT Sports.
“I had family in Bahrain at the time, so it felt like I was in a bit of a rush. There was a lot to think about and a short amount of time to make a decision.
“There were some concerns and if I’m going to take on such a big and important challenge, I need that love and connection with Rangers.
“To go at it again it had to be perfect and I had to be 100 per cent ready. Unfortunately the timing wasn’t right so I stepped aside but I wish them all the best. They’ve got a great manager. I’ll be watching from afar as a fan and I wish them all the best in tomorrow’s Old Firm game.”
Asked why, Gerrard replied: “No, the timing wasn’t right from a family point of view. But of course you have to be very careful about certain things and if things aren’t perfect you have to analyze whether it’s right for you.”
“There’s pressure and responsibility on your shoulders. It’s a huge challenge and it’s a huge club. My heart has been there and will always be with Rangers, but you have to look at the football side as well.”
“Is it right for me? Is the timing right? And is it perfect for me to be the best version of myself at that job? Unfortunately, I didn’t feel the timing was right for me.”
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