Farioli to Rangers? Ex Ajax boss enters the frame and has one condition!

Rangers are reportedly nearing a significant appointment in their quest for a new manager, with the Ibrox hierarchy expanding their shortlist to include a prominent new name: former Ajax boss Francesco Farioli. As discussions with leading contenders like Davide Ancelotti continue, the entry of the highly-regarded Italian tactician signals a fascinating new phase in the club's search for Philippe Clement's successor. While Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard is understood to have dropped out of contention, Ancelotti and Russell Martin remain firmly in the frame.

Francesco Farioli, a 36-year-old Italian, is currently a free agent after a high-profile departure from Ajax. His resignation followed a dramatic collapse in the Eredivisie title race, which saw PSV Eindhoven clinch the championship on the final day, overturning a nine-point lead. Ajax's technical director, Alex Kroes, publicly branded Farioli's exit as "incredibly disappointing," underscoring the weight of the season's conclusion.

It has emerged that Rangers have held a long-standing admiration for the young manager, with sources indicating he was even considered by the Light Blues before the appointment of Michael Beale. This renewed approach highlights the club's consistent interest in Farioli's coaching philosophy and potential. Before his stint in the Netherlands, Farioli honed his craft with coaching roles at clubs like Nice, Karagumruk, and Alanyaspor. His rising profile has also seen him linked with prestigious roles at Italian giants such as Atalanta and Roma.

Farioli wants a club that's willing to fight alongside him

Farioli has recently shed light on his expectations for his next career move, following a divergence of opinion with the Ajax board. He emphasized that his decision-making process isn't driven by a club's "brand or size," but rather by "how things are done." The Italian described himself as a "very demanding person," stating, "Before I join a club, I lay all my strengths and weaknesses on the table." He is clear about what he seeks in his next role: "I want to find a club that’s willing to fight alongside me."

This candid insight into Farioli's coaching ethos provides Rangers with a clear understanding of the driven and meticulous individual they are considering. His focus on alignment in methodology and a shared fighting spirit could be a compelling factor for the Ibrox board as they weigh their options.

With discussions still progressing with other candidates, Farioli's entry undoubtedly adds an intriguing dynamic to the race for one of Scottish football's most coveted positions. The coming days are set to be pivotal as Rangers aim to finalize their choice and usher in a new era at Ibrox.