Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard faces a significant financial barrier preventing his immediate return to football management in the United Kingdom, with a potential £10 million tax bill forcing him to delay any appointment until April 2026.
The Tax Rule That's Keeping Gerrard Away
The legendary midfielder must remain outside the UK for a full tax year following his departure from Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq in January to protect his earnings from substantial taxation. Reports indicate that returning permanently before spring would require Gerrard to repay up to 45% of his earnings from his time in the Middle East.
While the 45-year-old is permitted to visit the UK, he cannot exceed 91 days within the current tax year without triggering the massive tax liability. His former assistant, Michael Beale, faces identical circumstances after their simultaneous departure from the Saudi club.
Rangers Return That Nearly Happened
Gerrard came exceptionally close to rejoining Rangers, the club where he achieved legendary status by delivering an unbeaten Scottish Premiership title. However, after extensive discussions with the club's owners, he ultimately decided against the emotional return.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Gerrard explained his decision: "In terms of Rangers, very close. I had some really positive and interesting talks with the owners. It felt a bit rushed to me because I had my family in Bahrain at the time."
He elaborated further on his reasoning: "For me to take that on again, it had to be perfect and I had to be 100 per cent ready. Unfortunately, I wasn't due to the timing, so I stepped aside."
Behind the Scenes Concerns
Beyond the timing issues, reports suggest Gerrard harboured reservations about working within Rangers' sporting structure. The former England international was reportedly concerned about his lack of control within the club's hierarchy, despite the subsequent departure of sporting director Kevin Thelwell.
Gerrard maintained that family considerations and timing were paramount in his decision, stating: "No, the timing wasn't right from a family point of view. But of course, you have to do your due diligence in certain things and if things are not perfect, as well, I have to analyse is it right for me?"
The managerial icon expressed his enduring affection for the Glasgow club while acknowledging the need for professional caution: "My heart was there, and it always will be with Rangers, but I've also got to look at the football side of it. Is it right for me? Is the timing right?"
With Danny Rohl now installed as Rangers manager, Gerrard watches from afar as he navigates the financial landscape that will determine when he can next take charge of a British football club.
