Genius’ Rafa Benitez touted as next Rangers manager option and Barry Ferguson replacement

Didi Hamann has touted former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez as an option for Rangers.

The 65-year-old is not currently in the dugout having most recently managed Celta Vigo between 2023 and 2024.

However, Hamann – who played under Benitez at Liverpool – reckons the Spaniard could succeed at Rangers as he outlined his key ability to improve players and “work under restrictions”.

Barry Ferguson is the interim Rangers manager until the end of the season with no indication of an appointment beyond that period with potential for a new boss before next term.

Benitez represents a left-field shout for the role but Hamann reckons Rangers “could do a lot worse than Rafa Benitez”.

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Speaking to CoinCasino, Hamann said: “I think Rafa Benitez is a genius. It’s been 20 years in May since we won the Champions League and he’s been to another three finals since.

“I think he went to Inter at just the wrong time because he followed Jose Mourinho winning a treble, he is a fantastic manager and I don’t think there is any doubt about that.

“He makes players better and can work under restrictions. I think if Rangers do look for a new manager, they could do a lot worse than Rafa Benitez.”