Steven Gerrard opens up on Rangers exit regret after his ‘brutal’ Aston Villa lesson

Former Rangers and Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard has reflected on his managerial career, admitting in hindsight that he may have moved to the Premier League too early. Gerrard explained that he would advise emerging coaches to gain more dugout experience before making the leap to the English top flight, describing management at Villa as far more brutal than playing.

Gerrard guided Rangers to the Scottish Premiership title in 2021 before leaving for Villa later that year, where he was dismissed after under twelve months. He later coached Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq until January 2025 and held unsuccessful return talks with Rangers owners Andrew Cavenagh and Paraag Marathe in October 2025.