Former Rangers star lands first managerial job as SPFL club appoint Europa League finalist

The 38-year-old replaces Dick Campbell who was sacked by the League One club last month after a run of eight matches without a victory.

Arfield has been without a club since departing Livingston in May after taking on the role of caretaker player-manager for the final three matches of the 2025-26 season.

The move to Bayview represents a first full-time step into management for the former Canada international, who also had two spells with Falkirk as well as stints with Huddersfield Town, Burnley, Charlotte FC and Bolton Wanderers.

“I am absolutely delighted to be the new manager of East Fife and I cannot wait to get started,” Arfield, who has signed a contract until May 2029, told the club website.

“I feel I am ready to go into coaching after learning a lot from excellent managers during my playing career, and I am grateful to East Fife for believing in me and for giving me this opportunity.

“My aim is now to create opportunities for others and to build a team which will excite East Fife supporters and attract the attention of the local community. It is a highly respected club which has great potential, and it is a privilege to be given the chance to lead it forward.”

Liam Anderson, chairman of East Fife, added: “We are delighted to have agreed a deal with Scott to become our new player-manager.

“This an innovative appointment and gives a clear indication of our ambitions going forward. I am sure that the arrival of Scott will be welcomed by our fans who are keen to see an exciting brand of football at Bayview.”

Arfield, who played for Rangers in the Europa League final four years ago, will take charge of the Fifers for the first time when Peterhead visit Bayview on Saturday. He also hopes to resume playing this month once he regains match fitness.

An East Fife statement added: "The board of directors is grateful to the interim management team of Jim Moffat, Pat Slattery and Brian Easton, who have guided the squad through the recent period of vacancy. Jim will continue as goalkeeping coach, Pat will assist with coaching while injury prevents him from playing, and Brian returns to on-field duties."