Few players in recent Rangers history have divided opinion quite like Alfredo Morelos. A prolific goal scorer, an emotional competitor, and at times a controversial figure, the Colombian striker embodied both brilliance and unpredictability during his spell at Ibrox.
Now, former Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has offered rare insight into what it was truly like working with the forward and his reflections provide a fascinating look into elite-level football management.
Speaking candidly in a recent interview, Gerrard described Morelos as a “maverick” — a player capable of extraordinary moments, but also one who required careful handling behind the scenes. It’s a label that perfectly captures the dual nature of Morelos’ time at Rangers.
A Manager’s Balancing Act
When Gerrard took charge of Rangers in 2018, he inherited a squad that needed rebuilding. Among the players he quickly identified as crucial to his plans was Morelos, whose goal-scoring instincts made him one of the most dangerous forwards in Scottish football.
However, managing talent of that level came with its own challenges. Morelos was known for his fiery temperament, and there were moments when his emotions got the better of him during high-pressure matches. Gerrard had to strike a balance between maintaining discipline and allowing his star striker the freedom to express himself.
Rather than adopting a rigid approach, Gerrard tailored his management style to suit the individual. This flexibility proved to be a key factor in getting the best out of Morelos while keeping the team competitive.
“Bending the Rules” for Results
One of the most eye-catching aspects of Gerrard’s reflection was his admission that he occasionally allowed Morelos more leeway than other players. This wasn’t about favoritism — it was a calculated decision based on the striker’s importance to the team.
Morelos had the ability to change games in an instant. His goals often proved decisive, and his presence alone caused problems for opposing defenses. Gerrard acknowledged that there were times when he had to “bite his tongue” and prioritize results over strict discipline.
This approach highlights a reality in modern football: top players often require a different level of management. The challenge lies in maintaining team harmony while maximizing individual brilliance.
Building Strength Around Him
Understanding the risks of relying too heavily on one player, Gerrard strengthened his squad with experienced attacking options. The additions of Jermain Defoe and Kemar Roofe brought both quality and professionalism to the team.
These signings provided healthy competition for places and ensured that Rangers were not overly dependent on Morelos. It also gave Gerrard the option to rotate his squad when necessary, without weakening the team’s attacking threat.
Beyond their on-field contributions, experienced players like Defoe played a crucial role in maintaining standards within the dressing room. Their presence helped create a balanced environment where discipline and creativity could coexist.
A Key Role in Title Success
Gerrard’s time at Rangers reached its peak during the 2020/21 season, when the club secured the Scottish Premiership title in dominant fashion. It was a historic achievement that ended years of frustration and re-established Rangers as the top force in Scottish football.
Morelos played an important role in that success. While his goal tally was impressive, his overall influence extended beyond scoring. His movement, work rate, and ability to occupy defenders created opportunities for his teammates.
However, Gerrard was quick to emphasize that the title win was a collective effort. The strength of the squad, combined with a clear tactical approach and strong mentality, was the foundation of their success.
Managing a Maverick
The term “maverick” often comes with both praise and criticism. It suggests creativity and unpredictability, but also inconsistency. For Gerrard, the challenge was not to eliminate these traits in Morelos, but to channel them effectively.
Instead of trying to completely reshape the striker, Gerrard focused on creating an environment where he could thrive. This approach required patience, understanding, and strong communication — qualities that define successful modern managers.
By allowing Morelos to express himself within a structured system, Gerrard was able to harness his strengths while minimizing potential disruptions.
Legacy and Reflection
Looking back, Gerrard’s comments offer valuable insight into one of the most intriguing player-manager relationships in recent Rangers history. Morelos may not have been the easiest player to manage, but he was undoubtedly one of the most impactful.
His time at Rangers will be remembered for both his goals and his personality — a combination that made him a fan favorite and a constant talking point.
For Gerrard, the experience reinforced the importance of adaptability in football management. Success often depends on understanding players as individuals and finding the right balance between discipline and freedom.
Steven Gerrard’s revelations underline a key truth about football: it’s not just about tactics — it’s about people. Managing elite players requires emotional intelligence, flexibility, and the ability to make difficult decisions.
Alfredo Morelos represented both a challenge and an opportunity. And in finding a way to manage his “maverick” nature, Gerrard played a crucial role in shaping a title-winning team that will be remembered for years to come.
