Russell Martin was last in charge of Southampton in the Premier League Russell Martin's return to Rangers has been agreed in principle, with an official announcement expected within the next 48 hours. Martin's appointment as Philippe Clement's successor is nearing completion, pending final contract approvals and the confirmation of his backroom staff by the new board at Ibrox. It is believed that Matty Gill, Martin's long-standing assistant manager, will join him in his move north, following their successful partnerships at MK Dons, Swansea and Southampton.
Former Rangers full-back Maurice Ross is also set for a significant role in the coaching team should Martin secure the job. Martin and his team have emerged as the clear favourites after a surprising turn of events in negotiations with another contender, Davide Ancelotti. Over the past two days, it appears Ancelotti has lost interest in swapping Madrid for Glasgow's south side.
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT Ancelotti had seemed the frontrunner after several discussions with sporting director Kevin Thelwell and Gretar Steinsson, football adviser to the San Francisco 49ers. Incoming chairman Andrew Cavenagh is also understood to have participated in the final stages of these talks. However, Ancelotti's camp began to hesitate about a move to Ibrox earlier this week.
The timing is noteworthy, coinciding with significant changes at San Siro and the imminent departure of Simone Inzaghi from Champions League finalists Inter Milan for a lucrative move to Saudi club Al-Hilal. Inter quickly targeted Como's manager Cesc Fabregas as Inzaghi's successor, which seems to have influenced Ancelotti's position. The 36-year-old, poised to embark on his managerial career after shadowing his father Carlo at some of Europe's top clubs, was initially linked with Como when rumours suggested Fabregas might be heading to Bayer Leverkusen.
Speculation about Como's interest in Ancelotti started circulating shortly after Madrid media outlets leaked that Rangers were also in advanced talks with Ancelotti Jr. Russell Martin will be confirmed as the new Rangers manager this week However, within days it was confirmed that Bundesliga heavyweights had chosen former Manchester United disappointment Erik ten Hag to replace Xabi Alonso – who has succeeded Ancelotti Snr at the Bernabeu. This managerial reshuffle seemed to favour Rangers in their pursuit of the younger Ancelotti. But the situation took another turn over the weekend when Como discovered Inter's interest in Fabregas.
Meanwhile, Martin has been delaying acceptance of an offer to succeed Ruud van Nistlerooy at Leicester City amidst the ongoing uncertainty across Europe. Trending SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding.
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