Rangers exit sealed as announcement made, Belgian club favourites for him
Rangers are set for plenty of ins and outs this summer with the new owners calling the shots.
After a disappointing 2024/25 campaign, the Ibrox outfit will be looking to right the wrongs in the transfer window.
Russell Martin has already made his priorities clear to the Rangers board in terms of the players he wants them to sign.
Issame Charai favourite to join Westerlo
Issame Charai was part of the coaching staff of the Ibrox outfit’s first team.
However, the Belgian is no longer at the club as Rangers announced on Friday that he has parted ways.
He successfully managed to terminate his three-year contract in Glasgow and is now set for new challenges.
| Club | Role | Time Spent |
| Al Faisaly | Assistant manager | 2012-13 |
| Al Faisaly | Caretaker manager | 2013 |
| Beerschot | Assistant manager | 2016-18 |
| Sint-Truidense | Assistant manager | 2018-19 |
| Oud-Heverlee Leuven | Assistant manager | 2020-22 |
| Morocco Under-23s | Manager | 2022-24 |
| Rangers | Assistant manager | 2025 |
According to Nieuwsblad journalist David Van den Broeck, he is now free to sign for Belgian club Westerlo.
It’s understood that he is the favourite to take over from current head coach Timmy Simmons.
Martin unlikely to be affected by the Rangers exit
Charai’s departure is unlikely to significantly impact Rangers as Martin has already begun assembling his preferred coaching staff and brought in who he wanted, signalling a strategic shift.
The Belgian, who joined in January under Philippe Clement, served as assistant manager and stayed through Barry Ferguson’s interim tenure.
However, Martin brought in trusted allies like Matt Gill and Rhys Owen and if he wants to, can get in a replacement for Charai as well at Ibrox.
This move reflects Martin’s intent to implement his possession-based philosophy, which requires a cohesive backroom team aligned with his vision.
If further replacements are needed, Martin’s proactive approach, evidenced by his rapid staff overhaul, suggests he will recruit suitable candidates.
Rangers’ priority should now be strengthening the first team, particularly with new signings to boost competitiveness in the Scottish Premiership.
With the 49ers Enterprises’ backing, investing in quality players is critical to challenge rivals and restore dominance, making Charai’s exit a minor footnote in the broader rebuild.