Rangers FC is entering a new era following the acquisition of 51% of the club by an American consortium led by 49ers Enterprises, the investment arm of the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers. The deal, approved by the Scottish Football Association, includes an initial investment of £20 million, mainly aimed at the transfer market to strengthen the team and compete with Celtic at the top of Scottish football.

As part of this change, Andrew Cavenagh has taken over as club president, while Paraag Marathe, current president of 49ers Enterprises and of Leeds United, was appointed vice president. From Ibrox, they emphasized that this is not a multi-club model, and announced a strategic vision focused on sporting performance and long-term financial sustainability. A general meeting at the end of June will confirm these plans through a new share issue.

Investment, technical direction and long-term vision

The new board structure also includes Mark Taber, Andrew Clayton, and Gene Schneur, who are joining the board, while Graeme Park, Julian Wolhardt, and Alastair Johnston are stepping down. The club, which will become a private company, sees this transition as key to projecting a solid and ambitious model. According to Marathe, the goal is to build an organization that represents fans with pride and is deeply connected to its community.

Meanwhile, Rangers is still searching for a new manager after the departure of Philippe Clement in February. With Kevin Thelwell taking over as sporting director on Monday, the announcement is expected soon. Davide Ancelotti appears to be the leading candidate, though Russell Martin, Francesco Farioli, and Brian Priske have also been contacted. Gretar Steinsson, an executive at 49ers Enterprises, has led the hiring process, emphasizing the club’s priority to build its new project from the dugout.