adminRangers Scout Travels to South America to Monitor Chile International Vicente Pizarro as Russell Martin Era Begins
Rangers Football Club have wasted no time getting to work under new management, with reports confirming that a club representative has been dispatched to South America to assess Chilean midfielder Vicente Pizarro live in action. This move signals the start of the Russell Martin era at Ibrox, with preparations for the 2025/26 season already underway behind the scenes.
According to Chilean outlet En Cancha, relayed by Sport Witness, Rangers are among several clubs sending scouts to closely monitor Pizarro during his international duty. The 22-year-old currently plies his trade for Colo-Colo in the Chilean Primera División and has already earned six caps for the Chilean national team. He is part of the squad set to face Argentina and Bolivia in crucial World Cup qualifying fixtures this week.
A New Chapter at Ibrox: Russell Martin Takes Charge
This latest scouting mission comes just days after Rangers announced the appointment of Russell Martin as the club’s new head coach. The former Southampton and Swansea City boss joins on a three-year deal, replacing interim manager Barry Ferguson and becoming the latest figure tasked with restoring Rangers’ domestic and European dominance.
Martin is no stranger to Ibrox. He had a brief loan spell at Rangers in 2018 during his playing days, and now returns with a fresh vision and clear ambition to create a team the fans can rally behind. Speaking in his first interview as manager, Martin emphasized his commitment to building a side that embodies the core values of hard work, identity, and resilience.
“The supporters are the most important people at any football club,” he said. “My job is to give them a team they identify with, and they are proud of. A team that wins.”
Martin added that his style of play involves high energy, possession dominance, and relentless pressing. “Our teams always run the most out of possession because they have to if they want to dominate the ball and be aggressive,” he stated, underlining the physical and mental demands that come with his tactical philosophy.
Vicente Pizarro: A Rising Star in South America
Back in South America, Vicente Pizarro has been making waves with Colo-Colo, one of Chile’s most historic clubs. Despite being just 22, he has already amassed 150 appearances for the first team, scoring eight goals and providing three assists. His consistent performances in midfield have earned him international recognition, with six senior caps for Chile.
Born into footballing royalty—he is the son of former Chile international Jaime Pizarro—Vicente is a composed, technically sound midfielder who excels in dictating play and breaking up opposition attacks. His style of play could align well with Martin’s possession-based philosophy, making him a logical target as the club looks to reinforce key areas of the squad.
According to the report, Pizarro is under contract with Colo-Colo until December 2027, which means any deal would likely require a decent transfer fee. However, with growing interest from European clubs, including Rangers, a move to the continent this summer cannot be ruled out.
Rebuilding Rangers’ Midfield
Midfield is one area where Rangers may need to strengthen during the upcoming transfer window. With uncertainty surrounding the future of Nicolas Raskin, who has reportedly attracted attention from English clubs, a potential departure could leave a significant void in the engine room.
Pizarro could emerge as a direct replacement for the Belgian if he leaves Ibrox. While not identical in playing style, both operate centrally and offer defensive stability with a decent passing range. Pizarro’s ability to operate as a deep-lying playmaker could help Martin implement his fluid and organized midfield structure.
A Busy Summer Ahead for Rangers
The early move to scout Pizarro highlights the club’s proactive approach under Martin’s leadership. It also suggests that the club hierarchy is keen to back their new manager with fresh talent as they look to mount a serious challenge against Celtic in the Scottish Premiership and compete effectively in European competitions.
The Gers have already been linked with several players this summer, with reports indicating that a significant squad overhaul could be on the horizon. Martin, known for working with young, technically gifted players, may focus on bringing in individuals who fit his footballing vision and are capable of adapting quickly to his tactical demands.
Final Thoughts
Rangers’ decision to send a representative to South America is a statement of intent. Vicente Pizarro represents a young, exciting option who fits the profile of the kind of player Russell Martin would likely want in his midfield. While no deal is imminent, the fact that the club is already scouting international talent days into Martin’s reign suggests a new direction at Ibrox—one built on preparation, energy, and forward-thinking recruitment.
If Rangers can pull off a deal for Pizarro, it could mark the start of a transformative summer for the Glasgow club as they aim to close the gap on their city rivals and restore their former glory under a manager eager to make his mark.
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Godwin Obaje
