Rangers name 'most wanted young manager in British football' as Beale quits QPR

Scottish Premiership side Rangers have confirmed they have signed former QPR head coach Michael Beale on a contract until 2026.

Beale replaces Giovanni van Bronckhorst after his predecessor was sacked last week.

It was confirmed on Monday night that Beale, who was assistant coach to former Gers boss Steven Gerrard, has been appointed as their 18th permanent manager.

"This is an exciting appointment for the club, with Beale undoubtedly being one of the most sought-after young managers in British football," Rangers said in a statement.

"Indeed, during his previous spell at Rangers, he tirelessly supported manager Steven Gerrard and the technical staff in their work to win the number 55 title in 2021, while the club, under Gerrard, have was relaunched on the European scene and built a superb reputation once there.

"Beale has strong and existing relationships with many members of the first team and, of course, fully understands the unique nature of Rangers Football Club and the demands and standards that come with representing the club."< /p >

Beale only became manager in the summer of 2022 after QPR lured him from Gerrard's backroom team at Aston Villa in June. He made a quick impact at Loftus Road as he led the club to first place in the Championship just over a month ago before they failed to win any of their last five games before the World Cup break.

The Londoner's impressive debut as a manager in west London caught Wolves' attention in October. He refused to move to Molineux, but couldn't resist the opportunity to return to Scotland.

QPR director of football Les Ferdinand admitted losing Beale was 'a blow'.

"Naturally we are extremely disappointed to lose Mick," he told the club's website.

"Our extensive research when looking for a new head coach revealed that he is very much aligned with the direction we are heading in as a football club.

"The start to the season we have made, coupled with some very attractive football, has given us reason to be optimistic as we look to build on the previous three seasons.

“That optimism remains, but there is no doubt that it is a blow to lose Mick so early in his term.”

First-team coaches Neil Banfield, Damian Matthew and Harry Watling have also left QPR to join Beale at Rangers.

B team manager Paul Hall will take over first-team duties at Loftus Road while the club seek to identify a new head coach.

Beale has just over three weeks to prepare his side for their first home game against Hibernian on Thursday, December 15.

The Ibrox side are currently nine points behind city rivals Celtic at the top of the Premier League and are out of Europe after losing all six of their Champions League group games .

READ MORE: Beale makes the right move to dismiss stagnant wolves with a clearer big picture at QPR