Russell Martin Tactics At Rangers 2025/2026: New Possession Era At Ibrox – Tactical Analysis

Last week, after a protracted period of speculation, Rangers announced Russell Martin as their seventh permanent manager in 10 years. 

Taking over from Barry Ferguson, who had been put in caretaker charge after the departure of Philippe Clement in February, Martin joins a club in transition, having just been bought into by 49ers Enterprises.

Martin, arriving from relegated Premier League side Southampton, has faced doubts over whether his style of play is suited to the Gers, a team whose fans expect their side to dominate domestic opponents. 

The 29-times capped Scotland player has also managed at MK Dons and Swansea City, where he has imposed his possession-based style of play. 

Despite competing in League One, a league not renowned for possession football, Martin’s side had the third-highest average possession percentage in European football, behind only Barcelona and Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. 

This tactical analysis will examine the features of Russell Martin style of play in his most recent role with The Saints and assess how well it is suited to what the Glasgow giants will face in the 2025/2026 Scottish Premiership season.

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Can Russell Martin Break Down A Mid/Low-Block? 

One accusation thrown at Russell Martin coaching style is that he does not have the experience or track record of breaking down teams in low or mid-blocks, and his playing style may not fit what he will inevitably face in opponents as Rangers manager. 

This is wrong on two counts. 

While he will often face stubborn defences in the Scottish Premiership, it is a myth to say teams never high-press the Old Firm. 

Celtic, for one, who he will face in the seasons four most crucial league matches, will press his side high up the pitch. 

Another is that his playing style will struggle to break down such teams. 

Looking at games in the Premier League alone, let alone when his side was high-flying in the Championship, it is clear, contrary to much on social media, that this is one of Martins strengths. 

This image is from the build-up to Martins last goal as Southampton manager, and his teams equaliser against Chelsea in December. 

Chelsea have dropped into a deep 4-4-2 mid-block with all 11 players behind the ball.