Rangers Sack Martin: A Shocking End After 123 Days at Ibrox
Rangers have sacked Russell Martin as head coach after a mere 123 days and 17 games, plunging the club into fresh turmoil on October 5, 2025. The 39-year-old’s tenure ended following a 1-1 draw at Falkirk, his seventh league game with just one win. This Rangers sack Martin decision, amid fan protests and a police escort for the team bus, marks the fourth managerial change in under three years. With Rangers eighth in the Scottish Premiership, 11 points behind leaders Hearts, the Rangers sack Martin move aims to halt a dismal start.
The Rangers sack Martin announcement, released Sunday night, stated, “While transition periods require time, results have not met expectations.” Assistant Matt Gill and coach Mike Williamson also depart. As Rangers seek their fifth permanent boss since 2023, the pressure on owner Evangelos Marinakis intensifies.
The Swift Unraveling: Why Rangers Sack Martin
The Rangers sack Martin decision followed a poor run: one league win in seven, two Europa League losses, and a 9-1 Champions League aggregate defeat to Club Brugge in August 2025. Martin’s five wins in 17 competitive matches, including a single Premiership victory, fell short of expectations. The Falkirk draw, leaving Rangers eighth and 11 points off the pace, proved the final straw. Fans blocked the team bus, requiring police intervention, echoing growing unrest.
Martin, appointed in June 2025 after Southampton’s promotion and sacking in December 2024, beat candidates like Davide Ancelotti. Yet, his passive style and lack of fight alienated fans. “We’re improving,” Martin said post-Falkirk, but protests drowned him out. The Rangers sack Martin reflects a fractured relationship with supporters, who demand immediate success.
Managerial Instability: Fallout from Rangers Sack Martin
The Rangers sack Martin is the fourth in under three years: Philippe Clement (October 2023-February 2025), Barry Ferguson (interim 2025), and now Martin. Clement’s 2025 Old Firm win faded into poor domestic form, including a Scottish Cup loss to Queen’s Park. Ferguson’s interim role stabilized briefly, but Martin’s appointment, despite promotion success at Southampton, failed to convince.
The Rangers sack Martin, the shortest tenure in club history, highlights instability. Sporting director Kevin Thelwell’s £20m net spend, including Tottenham’s Mikey Moore on loan and Everton’s Youssef Chermiti for £8m, aimed for progress. Yet, Champions League exit and Europa League struggles—losses to Genk and Sturm Graz—underscored tactical woes. The Rangers sack Martin clears the technical staff, signaling a full reset.
Squad Overhaul and Future Challenges
The Rangers sack Martin coincides with a squad rebuild. Thelwell’s summer signings, focused on the English market, include loans and Chermiti’s permanent deal. Yet, the team’s eighth-place standing and Europa League woes—losses to Genk and Sturm Graz—demand change. League Cup semis offer hope, but Premiership form is critical.
The Rangers sack Martin opens the door for a new voice. Steven Gerrard, who won the title in 2021, is linked, but candidates like Corberan or Ancelotti could emerge. “We need someone to unite us,” fan Stewart said. The Rangers sack Martin tests Marinakis’ patience, with Dundee United on October 18 next.
Fan Reactions to Rangers Sack Martin
The Rangers sack Martin drew mixed reactions. “It’s time,” said fan David, citing Martin’s “delusional” comments. Steve noted, “There’s a disconnect between manager and players.” Robert predicted, “Attendance will drop if we don’t win soon.” Sandra called his interviews “waffle,” reflecting demoralization.
Protests, including the Falkirk bus blockade, highlight unrest. The Rangers sack Martin is the fourth since 2023, eroding trust. “We want a leader who fights,” Riddell said. The Rangers sack Martin aims to restore faith, but a quick appointment is key.
Looking Ahead: Rangers’ Next Chapter
The Rangers sack Martin demands urgent action. The international break offers time for a search, with Gerrard a frontrunner. Dundee United on October 18 is the new coach’s first test. The Rangers sack Martin, while necessary, risks further instability if the appointment falters.
In conclusion, the Rangers sack Martin after 123 days ends a dismal spell, but the road ahead is tough. With eighth place and European woes, a bold choice is needed to reignite Ibrox. The Rangers sack Martin is a reset, but success hinges on unity and results.
