Leicester City are on the verge of appointing Russell Martin as their new head coach, with the former Southampton and Rangers boss emerging as the clear frontrunner ahead of Rene Hake.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, talks are advancing rapidly, and Martin is Leicester’s top target for the role as the Foxes look to rebuild following their drop into League One.
🚨🦊 Leicester City are closing in on the appointment of Russel Martin as new head coach.
Martin, ahead of Rene Haké as top candidate for #LCFC job. 💙🤍 pic.twitter.com/jVyabWrJxe
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 13, 2026
Why Russell Martin?
Martin brings a clear possession-based philosophy that aligns with the club’s long-term vision under owner Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha and the new sporting director. Known for his tactical clarity, player development, and attacking style, he has experience guiding teams in the Championship and has a track record of building squads from the ground up.
- Previous roles: Manager at Milton Keynes Dons, Swansea City, Southampton, and most recently Rangers (where he was dismissed after a short spell).
- Key strengths: Emphasis on high-line defending, ball retention, and developing young talent — ideal for a Leicester side undergoing a major squad reset.
Leicester fans and pundits have mixed reactions, with some praising the appointment for its clear direction and others concerned about adapting his style to League One’s demands.
Who is Russell Martin?
Russell Kenneth Alexander Martin (born 4 January 1986) is a 40-year-old Scottish professional football manager and former player.
As a player, the centre-back enjoyed a long career in England and Scotland, most notably spending nearly a decade at Norwich Citywhere he made over 300 appearances and won multiple promotions to the Premier League. He also represented Scotland at international level (29 caps) and had spells with clubs including Brighton, Wycombe Wanderers, Peterborough United, Rangers, Walsall, and Milton Keynes Dons.
Martin transitioned into management in 2019 with MK Dons. He later managed Swansea City (2021–2023), where he built a reputation for attractive, possession-based football. In 2023, he joined Southampton and successfully guided them back to the Premier League via the playoffs in his first season. Most recently, he had a short spell as head coach of Rangers in 2025 before departing.
Martin is known for his modern, high-possession styleemphasis on building from the back, developing young players, and tactical discipline.
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