Following Russell Martin’s dismissal, Rangers are once again searching for a new manager — their fourth in as many years — as turmoil continues to grip Ibrox.
Martin was sacked after a 1-1 draw with Falkirk, a result that capped the club’s worst start to a season in nearly half a century.
His tenure lasted just four months, and many of the names considered during his initial appointment have resurfaced in the latest managerial hunt. Steven Gerrard, once seen as a frontrunner for a sensational return to Ibrox, has since withdrawn from contention, citing timing issues.
The club’s disastrous domestic campaign has left fans divided over where to place the blame. While Martin’s tactics and results were heavily criticized, much of the anger has also been directed toward those who appointed him.
Chief Executive Patrick Stewart and Sporting Director Kevin Thelwell have both faced mounting pressure, with protests at Ibrox calling for accountability. Stewart’s position, in particular, is now believed to be under serious threat.
According to Football Insider, Thelwell has been stripped of much of his influence in the current managerial search following what the outlet described as “underwhelming signings and the calamitous appointment of Russell Martin.” His role in selecting the next manager has reportedly been reduced, as the club’s hierarchy looks to prevent a repeat of past mistakes.
Thelwell had previously lauded Martin as “one of the best” coaches he had worked with, but after a string of poor performances, he dismissed the 39-year-old just weeks later.
The tension surrounding the Sporting Director grew after Rangers’ loss to Sturm Graz, when he and Stewart were confronted by a fan demanding Martin’s removal.
The situation was further inflamed when Thelwell’s son, Robbie, was appointed as Head of Recruitment — a move former Rangers striker Ally McCoist labelled “bizarre.”
Thelwell also played a key role in failed negotiations to bring Gerrard back to Ibrox. Despite positive early talks, the deal collapsed, and Gerrard — who led Rangers to their first Premiership title in a decade during his previous stint — opted out after recently departing Saudi club Al-Ettifaq.
With Gerrard out of the picture, Rangers have turned their attention to other candidates. German coach Danny Röhl, who left Sheffield Wednesday in the summer, has emerged as the bookmakers’ favourite.
Röhl was on the club’s radar earlier in the year but was overlooked due to a hefty release clause. Former Rangers players Kevin Muscat and Derek McInnes are also reportedly in the running as the club’s leadership seeks yet another reset in the dugout.
