NafisaRussell Martin has been appointed as the new head coach of Rangers FC, marking a significant step in his managerial career.
Despite his agent’s advice to downplay his interest, Martin openly expressed that managing Rangers was his top choice following his departure from Southampton in December 2024.
He took a brief hiatus from management before pursuing the role at Ibrox, even turning down other opportunities, including links to Leicester City.
Martin replaces Philippe Clement, with Barry Ferguson having served as interim manager.
He was selected over other candidates like Davide Ancelotti and Steven Gerrard.
In his introductory press conference, Martin emphasized his commitment to restoring pride at Rangers, referencing his previous stint as a player at the club, which he described as a personal disappointment.
He aims to implement an aggressive and adaptable playing style, focusing on winning trophies and building a strong connection with the fans.
What can the Rangers fans expect from you?
“We are here to win and we’ll do that in the best way we possibly can, within a similar concept to the game, which is to be dominant with the ball, which I think is what Rangers fans expect.”
“But to be really aggressive, really intense, really passionate, really hard-working, first and foremost, before anything with the ball has to come to that.”
“We’re here to win and we’re here to do it the best way we possibly can and also to help the club be sustainable with academy players coming through, young players, with creating assets for the football club.”
“And every job’s been different.”
Are you confident you can get a team on the pitch that could win the title next season?
“I think we’re confident we can have a team that is better, gets more points, wins more games, and competes, yeah, really competes to win trophies.”
What is a realistic expectation for a first campaign?
“I think it’s a much easier question to answer in four or five weeks.”
“We’ve had some training, we’ve had a squad, and we see what shape we’re in.”
“But I think we can improve in all areas, I really believe that, and I think we can definitely be better.”
“Time will tell I guess for you guys.”
“We have our own expectation of what we want in terms of the squad, how it’s going to look, how we’re going to train and how we’re going to perform.”
“After that, the rest will take care of itself.”
“I’m not going to say I’m going to make any promises—I don’t think it helps anyway—but the promise I will give is we are going to be all in to make this club and the team better.”
“It’s a fresh start, fresh energy, and new energy, and it’s a really exciting time.”
Addressing skepticism from some supporters, Martin acknowledged that he has not been the first-choice candidate at his previous clubs, including MK Dons, Swansea, and Southampton.
However, he has consistently worked to win over fanbases through results and commitment. He expressed confidence in doing the same at Rangers.
Martin’s appointment comes amid a new era for Rangers, with the club recently taken over by an American consortium led by Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises.
He has signed a three-year contract and is expected to benefit from a £20 million summer investment to rebuild the squad.
Martin is determined to bring success back to Rangers and is eager to make a meaningful impact in his new role.
Nafisa
