Russell Martin sacked by Rangers — Gerrard tipped to return

The football world was rocked when Rangers, one of Scotland’s most storied clubs, confirmed the dismissal of Russell Martin from the managerial helm after a turbulent start to the season. The decision ends Martin’s short and challenging tenure at Ibrox, amidst mounting pressure and inconsistent performances. Now, whispers are growing louder about the possible return of Steven Gerrard, the Liverpool legend and a former Rangers manager, whose previous spell brought both glory and hope to the Gers faithful. This development has ignited a frenzy among fans and pundits alike, eager to see if Gerrard can steady the ship and reignite Rangers’ quest for dominance in Scottish football once more.

Below is an exploration of the unfolding situation at Rangers, the implications of Martin’s exit, and what Gerrard’s potential comeback might mean for the club’s future.

Summary of content:

• Russell Martin’s troubled tenure and key reasons behind his sacking
• Detailed look at Rangers’ performance slump and its impact on the club
• Steven Gerrard’s managerial history and why he is favoured for the comeback
• Potential challenges and expectations for Gerrard’s second spell at Ibrox
• Fan reactions, club strategies, and wider implications for Scottish football

Russell Martin’s Tenure at Rangers: A Stormy Spell in 2025

Russell Martin’s time in charge of Rangers, although brief, was nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. Appointed with high hopes after impressive coaching stints elsewhere, Martin’s reign at Ibrox quickly unravelled. The club’s position in the Scottish Premiership plummeted to a concerning eighth place—a striking fall for a club historically churning out title challenges season after season.

The mounting pressure bore down sharply after a disappointing 1-1 draw against Falkirk, one of the lesser-ranked teams in Scottish football. This match unveiled the tactical frailties and inconsistencies that plagued Martin’s approach. Reports even emerged showing Martin being escorted by security amid swirling rumors of his imminent dismissal. The atmosphere had turned toxic, with a section of the fanbase growing restless, calling for change to rescue the season.

Key factors contributing to Martin’s downfall included:

• Lack of tactical coherence: His strategies often failed against both top-tier and mid-table sides, leading to puzzling defeats and draws.
• Incomplete squad integration: Difficulties in adapting players into systems that maximized their potential, notably with younger stars from Rangers Official Store acquisitions and loan signings.
• Pressure mishandling: The team’s defensive lapses in crucial moments reflected a psychological fragility, dramatically impacting the team’s confidence.

Indeed, a combination of these elements codified a period marked by underwhelming displays from players equipped with kits supplied by leading brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma, which was surprising given the club’s investment in quality gear paralleled their ambition.

To quantify Martin’s short tenure:

Metric	Value	Context
Duration as Manager	123 days	Shortest managerial spell in Rangers’ history
League Position at Dismissal	8th place	Far below club’s historical average
Final Game Result	1-1 Draw vs Falkirk	Trigger match for managerial change

This data underscores the severity of Rangers’ slump under Martin and sets the stage for an urgent need for revival.

Rangers’ Struggles and What Went Wrong on the Pitch

The troubles at Rangers go beyond just managerial choices—there’s a cycle of poor performances and strategic missteps that aggravated the club’s slide. Rangers, known for defending their turf fiercely against Celtic and other Premiership rivals, suddenly found themselves dramatically off pace.

Several factors combined to create this scenario:

• Unstable defensive structure: Despite wearing kits from brands like Castore and Umbro designed for optimal performance, Rangers failed to translate their athleticism into defensive solidity, conceding crucial goals late in games.
• Inconsistent midfield creativity: The engine room, historically a strength of Rangers squads, lacked fluidity and vision, struggling to break down stubborn defenses—often succumbing to breakdowns in possession.
• Questionable recruitment & integration: New signings from New Balance and Under Armour sponsored talent did not gel quickly, leading to mismatches in player roles and strategies.

These persistent issues pushed Rangers into a crisis not seen since they were embroiled in some of the most intense moments in football history, comparable to the comebacks fans remember fondly from lists like the Top 10 Football Comebacks.

Let’s examine Rangers’ recent form in the league:

Match	Result	Notable Performances
Rangers vs Livingston	Win	Strong attacking display but defensive vulnerabilities showed
Rangers vs Falkirk	Draw 1-1	Defensive errors; unable to secure victory
Rangers vs Celtic	Loss	Heavy midfield pressure from rivals exposed weakness

It’s clear that Rangers’ form reflected a gap not just in talent but also in management’s ability to rally a demoralised squad. The fans’ cry for stability and tactical acumen echoes strongly as the club searches for answers.

Fan Discontent and Club Atmosphere

The emotional temperature around Ibrox has been rising. Supporters are passionate, often edge-of-the-seat anxious during matches, especially against rivals. Football, more than just a sport, is woven deeply into the identity of the city and its communities—seen clearly in the Identity of Sport Cities and what football means to them.

Fans expressed their frustration through chants, social media, and declining attendance at critical fixtures, urging the board to act decisively. The atmosphere in the dressing room reportedly mirrored this tension. Rangers needed a new direction, a spark to reignite belief.

Steven Gerrard Poised for a Sensational Rangers Comeback

Amid the ruins of Martin’s tenure, a familiar name has emerged from the shadows—Steven Gerrard. The former Liverpool captain and Rangers manager, who famously lifted the Scottish Premiership title in 2021, is now seen as the prime candidate to take Rangers forward again. His first spell brought a renewed sense of purpose, passion, and tactical discipline that aligned with the club’s ambitions and identity.

Gerrard’s history with Rangers is marked by:

• Scottish Premiership title win: His leadership helped Rangers end Celtic’s longstanding domestic dominance in 2021, a monumental achievement remembered fondly by fans.
• Player development: He invigorated young talents, some of whom are now key players in the squad, while also managing big personalities.
• Tactical innovation: Gerrard’s use of formations and player roles maximized the effectiveness of Rangers’ squads, drawing praise for his adaptability.

Given the turmoil, many argue that his return could be the lifeline Rangers desperately need to steer the ship back on course. Players know the intensity and expectations under Gerrard, and fans associate him with a period of resurgence.

Here’s a snapshot assessing Gerrard’s achievements and potential impact:

Aspect	First Tenure (2018-2021)	Potential Second Tenure
League Titles	1 (2021)	Target: 1 title or more
Player Development	Elevated young core	Essential for rebuilding squad cohesion
Fan Connection	Strong rapport and trust	Critical to regaining full support
Expectation	High	Even higher given crisis

If Rangers can seal this deal promptly, preferably before the international break concludes, the momentum could shift dramatically for the club.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities Under Gerrard’s Return

Gerrard’s potential return is no silver bullet, however. While his allegiance to Rangers and proven coaching credentials are undeniable, several challenges lie ahead:

1. Rebuilding team morale: After months of uncertainty and underperformance, restoring self-belief within the squad will be crucial.
2. Integrating new signings: Attention will be needed to make effective use of players signed during Martin’s era, including those affiliated with Under Armour and Hummel sponsorship deals.
3. Managing expectations: The pressure to deliver instant results can be intense; handling this pressure while balancing squad development is a fine line.
4. Reigniting fan engagement: Winning back the trust and passion of the Rangers faithful will be as important as the results themselves.

With competitors like Celtic still formidable, the Scottish Premiership title race remains fiercely competitive, underscoring the challenges Gerrard must face. However, his knowledge of the club’s culture and experience in navigating this rivalry offers a solid foundation for success.

In addition to tactical expertise, Gerrard must leverage endorsements of major sports brands and retailers, such as Puma and Sports Direct, to maintain strong commercial and community support. Furthermore, turning to the historic rivalries that fuel Rangers’ passion, Gerrard can harness these narratives to bring the fans back fully onboard.

The following table highlights key factors influencing Gerrard’s next tenure:

Factor	Description	Impact Potential
Squad Mentality	Current low morale needs a reset	High, if addressed swiftly
Fan Support	Crucial for home advantage	Transformational if reengaged
Commercial Partnerships	Brand deals with Nike, Adidas, Umbro etc.	Provides financial stability and resources
Competition	Celtic and other Premiership challengers	High challenge to overcome

Rangers’ Future: Navigating the Post-Martin Era and Beyond

As Rangers look beyond Russell Martin’s controversial and agonizing exit, the club faces both uncertainty and fresh possibilities. The choice of Steven Gerrard—should it come to fruition—reflects a desire for stability, heritage, and a reconnection with the winning mentality that once uplifted the club.

Management must also focus on longer-term strategies, including nurturing talent from within, as highlighted in the Urban Football Future Stars report, and reinforcing community ties through engagement and cultural identity. The role of modern sportswear brands like New Balance and Castore in outfitting these emerging talents exemplifies the integration of tradition and innovation.

Moreover, the board’s approach to recruitment and player pathway development will be crucial in staving off another cycle of instability. A balanced squad infused with young energy and seasoned experience, supported by a fanbase eager for glory, can turn the tide.

Off the pitch, Rangers’ story remains entwined with Scotland’s vibrant football scene, and the club’s actions this season will resonate beyond Ibrox, impacting rivalries, and cultural narratives across the nation. The blend of history, expectation, and passion creates a drama as compelling as any Premier League or Champions League encounter.

• Maintain focus on youth talent from Urban Football Future Stars and similar programs
• Leverage Rangers Official Store and partnerships for enhanced fan outreach and club branding
• Stay engaged with commercial partners like Sports Direct, Puma, and Umbro for resources
• Monitor ongoing league dynamics for tactical adaptability and resilience
• Highlight Rangers players and legends in media to keep fan enthusiasm high (source)