Celtic and Rangers Fans Can’t Believe the Club Russell Martin Is Set to Manage Next – ‘Genuinely Couldn’t Write It’

Football Insider247 reports on the shock announcement that former Rangers manager Russell Martin is poised to take the helm at Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer (MLS), leaving fans from Scotland's fiercest rivals, Celtic and Rangers, in disbelief[1]. The 39-year-old's turbulent career has taken another dramatic turn, prompting reactions like "Genuinely couldn’t write it" across social media.

Martin's managerial path has been a rollercoaster. After guiding Southampton to promotion from the Championship to the Premier League, his side struggled in the top flight, leading to his sacking early in the 2024-25 season[2]. In a bold move, he was appointed Rangers boss in June 2025 following a club takeover by an American consortium, including the investment arm of the San Francisco 49ers led by healthcare tycoon Andrew Cavenagh[1][2]. However, his tenure at Ibrox was short-lived; he was relieved of duties after failing to deliver immediate results amid high expectations in the Scottish Premiership[1].

Rangers fans expressed mixed emotions, with some praising Martin's attacking, possession-based style—described as charismatic, vegan, Buddhist, and Green Party-supporting—but lamenting the quick exit[2]. Celtic supporters, traditional rivals, piled on with incredulity at his next destination: the MLS, seen as a step down from Old Firm intensity. Social media erupted with comments like "From Ibrox to Ohio? Couldn’t script this!" highlighting the irony of an American-backed Rangers hire landing stateside[1].

The article delves into Martin's philosophy, inherited challenges at Rangers post-takeover, and early promise marred by inconsistencies[2]. Fans from both Glasgow giants can't fathom the speed of his downfall and rebound, fueling memes and debates. As Martin eyes Columbus Crew, questions linger: Can his progressive tactics thrive in MLS, or is this another chapter in his unpredictable journey?[1][2]

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