Russell Martin has found the next John Stones as Rangers seal transfer
Russell Martin has come into Rangers with a very specific style of play.
The manager is known for his possession-based football, which has often delivered results throughout his coaching career so far.
Signings are no doubt needed if the Scotsman’s vision is to become a reality.
As a result, Rangers have now signed seven players this summer, with more expected to be on the way as Martin looks to lead the Gers to the Scottish Premiership title.
Nasser Djiga joins Rangers on loan from Wolves
Rangers have brought in many players this summer for all different positions on the pitch.
On Wednesday, Rangers confirmed their latest signing as Nasser Djiga joined on loan from Wolves.
The centre-back struggled for game time at the Molineux club, only making six appearances in all competitions.
However, despite coming from Wolves, the centre-back is relatively unknown in the UK, with the 22-year-old playing for Red Star Belgrade as recently as 2025.
However, the Ibrox faithful should be excited by their new addition, as many statistics suggest that he will be a revolutionary signing at Rangers.
Djiga could be the next John Stones for Rangers
While the 22-year-old may only be on loan at Ibrox, there are many signs that suggest he will be a highly important player this season.
According to Fbref (9 July), the centre-back is a perfect ball-playing defender, with the Burkina Faso international capable of easily linking up the play between the backline and midfield.
Based on statistics taken from the last year, Djiga outranks many central defenders in terms of his passing ability.
Per 90 minutes, Djiga averages a passing completion of 88.7 per cent, 4.12 progressive passes, 1.49 progressive carries, 0.34 successful take-ons, and 1.03 touches in the opposition’s box.
This has allowed the defender to have a massive influence on matches despite his starting position.
As a result, he is also averaging 0.11 non-penalty goals and 0.11 assists per match, showing his attacking side.
| Stats per 90 minutes | Nasser Djiga | John Stones |
| Passing completion | 88.7 per cent | 93.9 per cent |
| Progressive passes | 4.12 | 5.14 |
| Progressive carries | 1.49 | 2.07 |
| Successful take-ons | 0.34 | 0.2 |
| Touches in oppostion box | 1.03 | 1.19 |
| Progressive passes recieved | 1.03 | 0.49 |
| Non-penalty goals | 0.11 | 0.30 |
| Assists | 0.11 | 0.20 |
| Interceptions | 1.49 | 0.49 |
In fact, many of these statistics are similar to John Stones, who continues to find success at Manchester City.
With Rangers likely to be on the front foot for the majority of their games this season, this type of asset at the back could be the difference maker.
Rangers could challenge for the Scottish Premiership this season
Given the signings Martin has already made early in this transfer window, there is no reason why Rangers cannot win the league this season.
While it will be a big ask for the Glaswegians to close a 15-point gap on their rivals in such a short time, it is doable.
Pre-season will be vital, as a good start to the campaign could be the difference maker, especially with an early Old Firm derby on the horizon.
However, if Martin can get his players used to his style quickly, Rangers could go on to dominate the Scottish Premiership.
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