Godwin ObajeRussell Martin Set to Take Over at Rangers – Could Land “Mini Vinicius” as Dream First Signing
Glasgow Rangers appear to be edging closer to a new era as former Southampton boss Russell Martin looks set to take the reins at Ibrox. According to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Scottish manager has accepted the project offered by the Light Blues and is poised to become their new head coach ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Martin, who briefly played for Rangers on loan in 2018, has been without a club since parting ways with Southampton at the end of 2024. Although his stint in the Premier League was short-lived, his work in the Championship with the Saints has drawn widespread praise. Former teammate Steven Naismith is among those who believe Martin can bring a much-needed clear identity and tactical structure to Rangers.
As speculation mounts over his appointment, attention has turned to what a Russell Martin Rangers side might look like — and who his first signings could be. One name gathering serious momentum is Leeds United’s Largie Ramazani, a dynamic attacker who has already been dubbed a “mini Vinicius” due to his explosive style.
Russell Martin’s Tactical Identity
Russell Martin’s coaching style is well-documented. His Southampton team in the 2023/24 Championship campaign were possession-heavy but with a purpose. Unlike some managers who focus on ball retention for its own sake, Martin demands that his teams use possession to unlock defences, create overloads, and dominate territory.
His preferred system often featured a 4-3-3 formation. This setup gave him the flexibility to rotate roles between a traditional winger and an inverted wide forward — allowing for positional fluidity and creative movement in the final third. His side led the league in numerous key attacking metrics:
- Pass accuracy: 87.7% (1st in the league)
- Progressive passes: 2,556 (1st)
- Passes into the penalty area: 594 (1st)
- Shot-creating actions: 1,255 (1st)
- Expected goals (xG): 79.8 (2nd)
These stats, via FBref, reflect a team built to dominate and entertain. If Martin is confirmed at Ibrox, fans can expect Rangers to become a more front-footed, attack-minded side.
Rangers Target Leeds United Star Largie Ramazani
With a clear playing philosophy in mind, Martin will need personnel who fit his dynamic system. One such player could be Leeds United winger Largie Ramazani. According to a recent report from TEAMtalk, Rangers are monitoring the 24-year-old’s situation at Elland Road with a view to a potential summer swoop.
Ramazani only joined Leeds last year from Almeria for a reported £10m, but uncertainty over his role under manager Daniel Farke has opened the door to interest from elsewhere. The Belgian attacker fits the 49ers’ recruitment model of signing young, high-upside players capable of thriving in Scotland and in European competition.
The deal isn’t yet advanced, but it’s one Rangers and new sporting director Kevin Thelwell should pursue aggressively. Ramazani could be the ideal signing to kick off the Russell Martin era.
What Ramazani Could Bring to Rangers
Ramazani is a versatile forward who primarily plays on the left flank but has the technical ability and intelligence to operate across the front line. What makes him such an appealing option for Martin is how well he aligns with the tactical blueprint seen at Southampton — particularly the use of a direct, pacey winger on the left.
Talent scout Jacek Kulig once described Ramazani as a “mini Vinicius,” referencing Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. Like the Brazilian, Ramazani is an explosive, right-footed left winger known for his acceleration, flair, and ability to take on defenders. While not yet at Vinicius’ level, the potential is clear.
His per-90 stats from the 2024/25 Championship campaign paint an exciting picture:
- Non-penalty xG: 0.53 (Top 1% of wingers/attacking mids)
- Non-penalty goals: 0.68 (Top 1%)
- Assists: 0.23 (Top 18%)
- NPxG + xAG: 0.69 (Top 1%)
- Progressive carries: 4.63 (Top 8%)
- Progressive passes: 4.29 (Top 18%)
These metrics, sourced from FBref, indicate that Ramazani is not just a flashy winger — he’s a serious attacking threat capable of creating and finishing chances at an elite level.
Productivity Despite Limited Minutes
One of the most impressive aspects of Ramazani’s season was how efficient he was despite limited game time. He made 29 league appearances but started only seven matches. Even so, he managed to contribute six goals and two assists — a strong return considering his limited opportunities.
Imagine what he could do in a Rangers side where he starts regularly and is given the license to attack under Martin’s guidance. With Rangers typically dominating possession and creating multiple chances per game in the Scottish Premiership, Ramazani would have the perfect environment to flourish.
A Dream First Signing for the New Era
If Rangers finalise the appointment of Russell Martin, signing Largie Ramazani would be a statement of intent — one that signals a shift toward a younger, faster, more technical team. Ramazani has all the tools to become a fan favourite at Ibrox and could be the key to unlocking defences both domestically and in Europe.
For the 49ers group, who are intent on modernising Rangers on and off the pitch, this would be an ideal first move. And for Martin, a player like Ramazani offers the kind of dynamic, goal-scoring wide option that his tactical system demands.
As the pieces fall into place for what could be a transformative summer at Ibrox, all eyes are now on whether the club can turn interest into action and secure a player who might just become the Scottish Premiership’s next breakout star.
Godwin Obaje
