Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has once again sparked talk of a managerial return — and this time, it might be closer than many expected.
The former Reds captain, who has been out of work since leaving Al-Ettifaq in January, recently admitted that he has “unfinished business” in management.
His name has now been linked once more with a potential move back to English football, with Championship side Middlesbrough reportedly considering him as a candidate for their next manager.
For Liverpool fans, Gerrard’s journey on the touchline has been one of high hopes, mixed results, and a longing for the day he might one day take charge at Anfield.
But first, the man himself wants another challenge to prove he still has the magic touch — this time in the dugout.
Steven Gerrard ready for “another couple of challenges”
Speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents, Gerrard made his feelings clear:
“I’d love another go at some point. I want to change a few things and improve a few things and come back fresh, with a few different people around myself.”
The 45-year-old added that he’s using his time away from football to reflect and recharge, but the hunger is still there:
“There’s a part of me that still feels there’s unfinished business, in terms of wanting to go in and face another couple of exciting challenges.”
Apparently, Gerrard only wants a project that “competes to win.” That stance could make a promotion-chasing club like Middlesbrough an attractive option — if the timing is right.
The Liverpool icon reportedly came close to rejoining Rangers last month but turned it down, explaining that the offer “felt a bit rushed” and that he wasn’t “100% ready.”
Is a return to English football on the cards?
With Rob Edwards set to leave Middlesbrough for Wolves, Gerrard is said to be one of three names on the club’s shortlist. Former Boro boss Tony Mowbray and current Valencia manager Carlos Corberán are also reportedly being considered.
Gerrard, however, may see this as the perfect opportunity to rebuild his reputation. His time at Aston Villa ended earlier than expected, and his spell in Saudi Arabia didn’t offer the competitive edge he craves.
A Championship promotion push could be just the kind of fight he’s looking for.
For now, Gerrard is keeping his cards close to his chest. But with football’s managerial merry-go-round spinning again, it seems only a matter of time before he jumps back on.
Steven Gerrard’s managerial career so far
| Club | Role | From | Until | Matches | Points Per Match (PPM) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al-Ettifaq FC | Manager | Jul 2023 | Jan 2025 | 55 | 1.33 |
| Aston Villa | Manager | Nov 2021 | Oct 2022 | 40 | 1.18 |
| Rangers FC | Manager | Jul 2018 | Nov 2021 | 192 | 2.15 |
| Liverpool FC UEFA U19 | Manager | Sep 2017 | Jun 2018 | 8 | 2.25 |
| Liverpool FC U18 | Manager | Jul 2017 | Jun 2018 | 24 | 1.71 |
| Liverpool FC | Youth Coach | Feb 2017 | Jun 2017 | – | – |
For Liverpool fans, the hope remains that Gerrard’s managerial career will one day bring him home to Anfield. But for now, the focus seems to be on finding the right club — one that fits his hunger to win and his desire to grow as a coach.