Russell Martin returns to Ibrox nearly seven years after a brief playing stint with the club during a loan spell in early 2018. His time as a player at Rangers was short, featuring 15 appearances and a goal, and now he comes back with managerial experience gained in England’s Championship and Premier League.

From player to coach: Martin’s history with Rangers

Martin joined Rangers on loan from Norwich City in January 2018, making his debut in a 2-0 win over Aberdeen. During his five-month spell, he was part of a transitional squad and scored once in a victory against Hearts.

Although his playing style as a defender was often pragmatic and focused on stability, his managerial philosophy has evolved into a more progressive, possession-based approach.

After leaving Rangers, Martin transitioned fully into management, starting with MK Dons in League One, then moving to Swansea City, where he impressed with his tactical ideas, before taking over at Southampton. His time at Southampton saw mixed results, culminating in his dismissal in December 2024.

Challenges ahead at Ibrox

Martin inherits a club that has experienced considerable instability since the departure of Steven Gerrard in 2021. Rangers have cycled through several managers and tactical systems, struggling to maintain consistency and close the gap on their rivals.

The squad Martin now faces has a significantly lower market value compared to rivals Celtic and contains many players who underperformed last season, leading to expectations of a summer overhaul.

With pre-season training starting in late June and Champions League qualifiers looming in July, Martin’s immediate task will be to impose his style on a squad that has yet to find a clear identity.

His emphasis on possession, intensity, and playing with courage will be tested in a league where defensive solidity and physicality often dominate.

The pressure to deliver results quickly will be high, especially given Rangers’ ambitions and the intense scrutiny that comes with managing one of the clubs involved in the world’s fiercest football rivalries.