Rangers suffer early setback in search for new Sporting Director

Rangers have been dealt an early blow in their search for Ross Wilson’s replacement after Christian Nerlinger turned down an approach to become the club’s new Sporting Director.

Wilson departed Ibrox this week to take up a senior role at English Premier League side Nottingham Forest, leaving a void in Rangers’ football department.

Manager Michael Beale described Wilson as a ‘good ally’ and the Light Blues were keen to move swiftly to find his successor.

However, former Rangers midfielder Nerlinger has revealed he rejected an offer to return to Glasgow in a directorial position.

The German admitted he was ‘honoured’ to be considered for such a prestigious post at his old club but intends to remain focused on his player agency business.

Rangers suffer early setback in search for new Sporting Director as Christian Nerlinger rejects the role

Speaking to Transfermarkt, Christian Nerlinger said: “It is a great honour for me to be contacted by this incredibly large and traditional club. Rangers are and always will be special to me.

“With my agency, I have built up a very close, loyal and trusting relationship with my players over the past few years and I feel a great responsibility towards them. The agency is the way I always wanted it to be, and I really enjoy working with the guys every day.”

Nerlinger’s comments will come as a blow to Rangers, who viewed the 46-year-old as an ideal candidate given his affinity for the club and wealth of experience in player recruitment and management. However, his loyalty to his burgeoning agency means the Light Blues must broaden their search.

Replacing Wilson was always going to be difficult but attracting a figure who understands Rangers’ history and demands could be pivotal to continuing their upward trajectory under sporting director-manager duo Ross Wilson and Michael Beale. The hunt for the right candidate continues.