Rangers board in talk with two ex-Premier League coach as potential Russell Martin replacement – things are moving fast

Gerrard and Nuno Emerged as Key Targets After Martin’s Humiliating Defeat

The pressure on Rangers manager Russell Martin has reached a boiling point following yesterday’s humiliating 1-0 Europa League defeat to KRC Genk, and reports suggest the Ibrox board has already intensified its search for a replacement, with former boss Steven Gerrard and ex-Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo emerging as key candidates.

The loss, sealed by a goal from former Celtic striker Oh Hyeon-gyu, compounded a dismal start to the season for Martin, who is yet to secure a Premiership victory and faces a furious fanbase. Insiders suggest that Rangers’ new ownership, 49ers Enterprises, is now actively discussing contingency plans, concerned that the club’s season is already spiraling out of control.

Steven Gerrard, who led the club to the historic undefeated league title in 2021, is currently out of work after departing Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq and is reportedly keen on a sensational return to the Ibrox dugout. The ownership reportedly held talks with Gerrard over the summer before ultimately appointing Martin, and his proven track record of success in Glasgow makes him an obvious, though potentially controversial, option.

Meanwhile, Nuno Espirito Santo, fresh from his departure from Nottingham Forest, is another high-profile name heavily linked with the post. Nuno’s availability and successful spells at Wolves and Forest have reportedly impressed sections of the Rangers hierarchy, who view his tactical discipline and Premier League experience as a valuable asset. The fact that the club is publicly linked with two managers of this calibre underscores the severity of the crisis and the board’s growing impatience with Martin’s reign.

With the club already trailing rivals Celtic in the league and crashing out of Europe, the next few days are set to be critical as the 49ers weigh up whether to stick with Martin or pull the trigger on a seismic managerial change.

45-Year-Old Manager Keen to Replace Russell Martin at Rangers offers further insight into Steven Gerrard’s potential return to Ibrox.