Davide Ancelotti and Luka Modric ‘set for reunion’ at Rangers

In what could be one of the most exciting developments in Scottish football this year, Davide Ancelotti and Luka Modric are reportedly on the verge of reuniting at Rangers FC. The son of legendary Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has emerged as the frontrunner for the managerial job at Ibrox, with veteran midfielder Modric tipped to follow him to Glasgow once his Real Madrid contract expires this summer.

Davide, 35, recently held a face-to-face meeting with Rangers’ hierarchy, where he presented his vision for the future of the club. The Italian tactician, who has long operated in the shadows of his father as an assistant, is now focused on carving out his own legacy in the managerial world.

Sources close to the discussions say the talks went positively, and Ancelotti Jr. is confident he is the club’s first choice to replace Philippe Clement, whose tenure ended without silverware. Despite Rangers’ turbulent end to the season, the project remains highly appealing—especially for a young coach eager to lead a historic club back to domestic and European glory.

One of the more intriguing details emerging from the talks is Ancelotti’s private discussions with Luka Modric, the Croatian maestro and Ballon d’Or winner. Modric, 39, has played under Davide during their shared time at Real Madrid and maintains a close relationship with both Ancelotti men. With his contract in Madrid winding down, the idea of joining Rangers as his final club before retirement has been floated.

The potential reunion has sparked excitement among Rangers fans, who see Modric’s possible arrival as a game-changing moment not just for the club, but for Scottish football. A move to Ibrox would not only bring in world-class talent but also galvanize a squad that has fallen behind Celtic in recent seasons.

However, the situation remains complex due to the club’s ongoing takeover process. An American investment group, led by Andrew Cavenagh and the 49ers Enterprises Global Football Group, is in advanced talks to acquire a controlling stake in Rangers. The transition has slowed final decision-making, although current CEO James Bisgrove and interim leader Patrick Stewart are still active in the managerial search.

Sporting director candidate Kevin Thelwell, formerly of Wolves and Everton, is also said to be involved in the decision. His familiarity with Ancelotti Jr. from their shared time at Goodison Park could further boost Davide’s case.

While many expected Davide to follow Carlo to the Brazilian national team, the younger Ancelotti seems determined to establish his own path. With coaching experience in Europe’s top leagues—Bayern Munich, Napoli, Everton, and Real Madrid—his CV is already robust despite his age.

The prospect of managing Rangers offers him the perfect stage to prove himself. Scottish football, though less glitzy than La Liga or the Premier League, offers European competition, intense rivalries, and a passionate fanbase. Ancelotti reportedly sees the role as a “stepping stone” to greater things—but also as a chance to build something meaningful.

As for Modric, retirement has been looming, but he remains in remarkable physical condition. A move to Rangers would allow him to continue playing at a competitive level without the physical toll of La Liga’s relentless pace. For Modric, the allure isn’t just football—it’s legacy, and perhaps even the challenge of winning silverware in a fourth country.

Former teammates and pundits, including Zinedine Zidane, have paid tribute to Modric’s incredible career following his Real Madrid farewell. The idea of him winding down his career in Scotland might have seemed fanciful a year ago, but with Ancelotti’s appointment likely, that dream could become reality.

Rangers fans, still processing a painful season that ended without league or cup success, are desperate for a new direction. The possible arrival of Davide Ancelotti signals a fresh era—an injection of tactical innovation and global connections that could lift the club.

Moreover, the potential combination of Ancelotti’s football philosophy with Modric’s on-field intelligence could transform Rangers into genuine contenders not just domestically, but in Europe. Their presence could also attract more talent to Ibrox, creating a ripple effect across the league.

Modric’s influence would be enormous. His ability to dictate tempo, read the game, and inspire younger players would instantly elevate Rangers’ midfield. He could also serve as a mentor to the club’s promising youth prospects, giving them a once-in-a-lifetime experience under the guidance of a footballing great.

Ancelotti, for his part, is said to be working on backroom plans, identifying potential staff and considering changes to training methods. His attention to detail and emphasis on player development is believed to have impressed the board during initial talks.

The Scottish Premiership, long criticized for lacking global stardust, could find itself under a much brighter spotlight if this reunion materializes. It would signal that Rangers mean business and that the club is ready to challenge Celtic’s dominance once again.

While no official announcement has been made, sources suggest that negotiations could be finalized in early June, just after the current season concludes across Europe. Both parties are keen for clarity before pre-season begins.

Should the deal go through, Rangers fans will be dreaming of Champions League nights filled with glamour, tactical elegance, and perhaps even a final encore from one of football’s most decorated midfielders. The Davide Ancelotti–Luka Modric axis could very well redefine the club’s modern era.