Rangers have confirmed the appointment of Russell Martin as their new head coach on a three-year contract.
Former Scotland international Martin, who had a short loan spell as a player at Ibrox in 2018, takes over from Barry Ferguson, who led the club on an interim basis following the sacking of Philippe Clement in February.
The 39-year-old has managerial experience with MK Dons, Swansea and Southampton, who he led to promotion in 2024 before being dismissed last December with the club bottom of the Premier League.
✍️ We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Russell Martin as Head Coach of our men’s first team on a three-year deal.
Full Details ⬇️
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) June 5, 2025
We want to play with bravery – Martin
Martin told the club’s official website: “It is a privilege to be named head coach of Rangers Football Club at the beginning of this exciting new chapter.
“I know what this club demands. From my time here, I had a taste of how special this club is, the expectation, the passion and the history. Now, as I return, I’m determined to bring success back, for the supporters, the players, and everyone inside this club.
“I’m here to set standards, work hard and do my very best to earn the respect of the Rangers fans.
“There’s a lot to be done, but the goal is clear: win matches, win trophies, and give Rangers fans a team that they can be proud of. We want to play with bravery, to take the ball, to be aggressive, and to stand up in the big moments.
“Preparations for pre-season are already underway. I look forward to meeting the players and building a squad that our fans can believe in.”
Fans not convinced by Martin’s style
Martin’s appointment has received a mixed reception from Rangers fans with many highlighting his time at St Mary’s, during which he received criticism for a stubbornness to divert from his preferred style of playing out from the back, as cause for concern.
But Rangers CEO Patrick Stewart is confident Martin will establish a culture that will benefit the club in the long term.
Stewart said: “Our criteria for our next coach were clear: we wanted a coach who will excel in terms of how we want to play, improve our culture, develop our squad, and ultimately win matches. Russell was the standout candidate.
“This appointment is about building a winning team and a strong culture. He is no stranger to our club, we expect success and Russell knows that. We are excited for his leadership.”
Rangers finished 17 points behind Celtic in last season’s Scottish Premiership table.
