In a move set to shape the next chapter of Scottish football, Rangers are on the brink of appointing Russell Martin as their new head coach. The 39-year-old, who recently managed Southampton, is expected to be officially unveiled within the next 48 hours. Barring any unforeseen issues, Martin will sign a three-year contract and become the centerpiece of a sweeping new era at Ibrox, driven by fresh ownership and ambition.
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A New Era at Ibrox Begins
The imminent arrival of Martin comes amid sweeping changes at the Glasgow club. Just days ago, an American consortium headed by Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises gained a majority stake in the club, signaling a significant shift in direction and resources. At the administrative level, the appointment of Kevin Thelwell as the new sporting director has further accelerated the club’s transformation.
“The recruitment of a new head coach would come to a conclusion in the coming days,” Thelwell stated on his first day in the role, and it seems that promise will now be fulfilled with Martin’s appointment.
A Familiar Face Returns
Martin is no stranger to Rangers. The former Scotland international had a brief loan spell at the club in 2018, and now returns as head coach with a clear mandate: to wrest control of Scottish football back from Celtic, who have won 13 of the past 14 Premiership titles.
While Davide Ancelotti, son of Carlo Ancelotti and former assistant at Real Madrid, was also considered, Martin emerged as the preferred candidate over Barry Ferguson, who took interim charge following Philippe Clement’s departure.
A Philosophy Rooted in Purposeful Possession
Martin’s tactical philosophy has often sparked debate. Despite criticisms that his teams focus excessively on possession, analyst John Walker paints a different picture: “To me, anytime I’ve watched MK Dons, Swansea or Southampton – more the latter in the Championship – it was actually really forward attacking play. It wasn’t too dissimilar… to Postecoglou’s Celtic.”
Martin himself remains committed to his identity. “How the style of play will fit” and “how convinced the ownership and people in charge are with how we do things,” he told BBC’s Match of the Day, outlining his priorities when evaluating coaching opportunities.
The evidence suggests that Martin’s approach, while nuanced, is aggressive, front-foot football designed to dominate rather than merely retain possession.
Adaptable, Not Stubborn
One of the biggest criticisms levelled at Martin during his stint at Southampton was his supposed unwillingness to adapt. However, former teammate and current Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn refutes that claim: “When we first played them they were quite open. Then when we played them again, they were a little bit pragmatic… that shows a coach that can adapt and change.”
Martin, for his part, draws a firm line between stubbornness and self-belief: “There is a difference between being stubborn and having conviction,” he said to BBC Sport. “If you really believe in something… then the logic for me is that you stick with it and try to be better at it.”
Overhaul on the Horizon
Martin will likely not only lead the squad but reshape it entirely. Following the investment from the new ownership group, significant funds are expected to be allocated for squad development.
Analyst John Walker predicts a near-total rebuild: “I don’t think many of the players that are currently there will survive… I would expect a massive squad overhaul if he comes in.”
Having overseen 17 signings in one summer at Swansea and managed a mass exodus at Southampton, Martin is well-versed in rapid transformations. Walker also warns that fans should prepare for early setbacks: “You’re going to also experience teething problems, a lot of goals conceded to start with… [but] I think the exciting part will be there’ll be lots of goals for Rangers.”
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FAQs
Who is set to become the new Rangers manager?
Russell Martin is close to becoming the new Rangers manager on a three-year deal.
What experience does Russell Martin bring to Rangers?
Martin has managed MK Dons, Swansea, and Southampton, and had a brief playing stint at Rangers in 2018.
What is Russell Martin’s coaching style?
Martin prefers aggressive, forward-thinking football focused on purposeful possession, similar to Postecoglou’s approach.
Will Rangers undergo a squad overhaul under Martin?
Yes, a significant rebuild is expected to fit Martin’s tactical demands, with many current players likely to leave.
How soon will Russell Martin be appointed as Rangers boss?
Martin is expected to be officially confirmed within the next 48 hours, pending final formalities.
