“Done Deal: Rangers Set to Appoint Manager Pep Guardiola Admires – Fans Are Saying the Same Thing”

Rangers appear to be closing in on a major managerial appointment as they continue their search to usher in a new era at Ibrox. Over 100 days have passed since the club parted ways with Philippe Clement, a decision that signaled a desire for a major reset following a disappointing campaign. Now, with a new ownership structure and sporting director in place, momentum is finally building bringing former Southampton manager Russell Martin into the spotlight.

According to Sky Sports, Rangers are in “advanced talks” to appoint Martin as the club’s new manager. The 39-year-old, who has been out of work since December, is reportedly at the forefront of new sporting director Kevin Thelwell’s plans. Backed by the investment and influence of Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises, Thelwell is looking to make a decisive first move one that could reshape the identity of Rangers both on and off the pitch.

Martin is no stranger to the club. The former defender had a brief loan spell at Ibrox in 2018 during the final years of his playing career. Since hanging up his boots, he’s built a reputation as one of the more thoughtful, modern coaches in the British game, managing MK Dons, Swansea City, and most recently, Southampton.

His stint at St. Mary’s may have ended in disappointment Southampton won just one of 16 Premier League matches under his stewardship, eventually leading to his dismissal but Martin’s principles and tactical philosophies remain highly regarded in footballing circles. One of his most notable admirers is none other than Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola.

After City narrowly beat Southampton 1-0 in October 2023, Guardiola praised Martin’s approach and the structure of his team. The Catalan tactician remarked, “It’s a good game to learn as a manager. I am going to learn a lot with Russell because they did really well.” Coming from someone of Guardiola’s stature, the compliment carries significant weight. It reflects Martin’s tactical depth and his commitment to progressive football traits that Thelwell and Rangers’ hierarchy are likely hoping will translate well in the Scottish Premiership.

Rangers’ recent performances have left fans craving direction. Under interim manager Barry Ferguson, the Light Blues managed just six wins across all competitions, leaving supporters increasingly disillusioned. Ferguson, a club legend on the field, struggled to translate his passion into results, leading to one of the worst managerial records in the club’s modern history.

That’s why this upcoming appointment feels particularly crucial. It’s not just about results it’s about identity. Martin’s philosophy, often built around possession, control, and positional play, could offer Rangers the kind of footballing foundation that has been missing in recent years. His approach is also likely to resonate with a fan base that has grown weary of short-term fixes and managerial churn.

Martin’s experience with young players and his reputation for developing talent could also appeal to the club’s long-term vision. With Rangers aiming to be more sustainable in the transfer market, a manager who can extract value from the squad and promote from within could be exactly what the new regime needs.

Of course, questions remain. Can Martin handle the unique pressure that comes with managing Rangers, a club where every dropped point is scrutinized? Can he deliver silverware while also embedding a new style of play? And most importantly, can he reverse the tide in what has been a challenging period both domestically and in Europe?

Those questions will be answered in time, but for now, the signs are promising. Thelwell’s pursuit of Martin suggests a clear, long-term strategy one rooted in modern footballing principles and a belief in managerial development over short-term results. The fact that a figure as revered as Guardiola holds Martin in high regard only strengthens the case for his appointment.

As negotiations enter the final stages, Rangers supporters may soon have a new man in the dugout one who blends familiarity with innovation, and caution with ambition. Russell Martin may not have the silverware of his predecessors, but he brings with him something just as valuable: the potential to shape a new era at Ibrox. And if Guardiola sees something in him, perhaps Rangers fans should too.