Former Rangers coach becomes manager of Belgian club

A former Rangers coach has reportedly become the new manager of Westerlo.

Issame Charai, who left Ibrox last week, has been appointed by the Belgian side, according to journalist Sacha Tovolieri.

The Moroccan coach was brought in as a No.2 to Philippe Clement at the start of the year.

When Clement was sacked, Charai stayed on to work under interim boss Barry Ferguson.

However, the 43-year-old has now decided to move on following the permanent appointment of Russell Martin, who brought in his own backroom team.

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It has been reported that Charai was Westerlo’s favoured choice to replace Timmy Simons, whose position was in doubt.

Journalist Sacha Tovolieri claimed it was a done deal on a two-year contract.

He said: “Issame Charaï’s the new head coach of Westerlo in Pro League.

“Agreement found between all parties in order to make it happen.

“Two years contract.”

Rangers confirmed Charai’s departure last week.

A statement from the club said: “Rangers can today confirm the departure of Issame Charai from the men’s first-team coaching staff.

“Charai, who joined the club in January to assist Philippe Clement, remained on the coaching staff through Barry Ferguson’s spell in charge.

“However, following the appointment of Russell Martin as head coach, it has been mutually agreed for Charai to move on with the best wishes of everyone at Rangers.”

CEO Patrick Stewart expressed his gratitude to Charai for his work at the club, saying: “I want to place on record the sincere thanks of both the club and I to Issame for his work over the past six months.

“For whatever comes next for him, I want to wish him the very best of luck.

“He will always be welcome back at Ibrox.”