Credit: Hasan Karim/Imago

Jack Dawson

Wed 4 June 2025 22:10, UK

The 49ers have been quick to make changes at Rangers since their arrival at Ibrox on Friday.

Multiple figures at Rangers fear the sack after the arrival of the US consortium.

Barry Ferguson was recently let go after taking charge of the first team on an interim basis following Philippe Clement’s departure.

However, arrivals are also expected, as the 49ers look to take the Gers back to the top of the Scottish Premiership. 

Fabrizio Romano confirms that Russell Martin has signed the contract to become Rangers’ manager

Reports on Wednesday suggested that Martin had beaten Ancelotti to become the new Rangers manager. 

The Englishman has been out of work since December 2024 when he was sacked by Southampton after their poor start to their Premier League season. 

However, Martin impressed when he was interviewed by the 49ers, making him a surprise candidate.

Now, it seems that the 39-year-old is all but assured to be in the Ibrox dugout next season after the latest Romano update. 

The journalist posted on X (4 June): “Russell Martin has just signed his contract tonight as new Rangers FC head coach on three-year deal.

“Agreement until June 2028 sealed.”

Three-year deal shows the 49ers’ trust in Martin 

While many of the Ibrox faithful are wary about the imminent appointment of Martin, the 49ers clearly have a lot of trust in the manager’s abilities. 

The 39-year-old has seen success at every club he has been at, most recently when he took Southampton to the Premier League.

Now, after a successful interview, the 49ers clearly see Martin as a long-term appointment.

This now needs to be backed in the transfer window to give the Englishman the best chance to succeed.

With the Champions League qualifiers on the horizon, Martin will be expected to deliver results quickly at Ibrox.