Russell Martin Named Leicester City Manager In First Job Since Rangers Sacking

Leicester City have appointed Russell Martin on a three-year contract as the new manager, with the club preparing for League One football after relegation from the Championship following a six-point deduction for financial breaches. The agreement marks Leicester City's latest attempt to stabilise the first team.

Gary Rowett will depart this summer after serving as interim manager, having been brought in to try to keep Leicester City in the Championship. Rowett could not prevent relegation, with the deduction for previous overspending proving decisive in the final standings.

This role is Russell Martin's first job since Rangers dismissed Martin in October, only 123 days after the appointment at Ibrox Stadium. That short spell in Scotland ended early, yet Leicester City now turn to Martin to reshape the squad for League One.

Martin outlined immediate priorities and longer-term aims in an interview with the club. "Im delighted to be here and excited to begin working with the players and staff," Martin told the club website. "This is a club with great history, strong support and high expectations, and Im looking forward to getting to know the Club, the city and the supporters. My immediate focus is on the team: building strong relationships, setting clear standards and creating performances that Leicester City supporters can connect with and be proud of."

Leicester City have now reached a seventh permanent managerial appointment since April 2023, when FA Cup-winning manager Brendan Rodgers left the club. The frequent changes highlight instability, and Russell Martin arrives with a clear need to bring consistency and results.

Russell Martin already has League One experience from managing MK Dons between November 2019 and August 2021. During that spell, Martin oversaw 65 league matches, winning 24, drawing 17 and losing 24. MK Dons finished 13th in the 2020-21 League One season under Martin's guidance.

Leicester City and Russell Martin now enter a crucial period, with League One bringing different pressures and expectations. Martin's previous work in the division, combined with stated focus on relationships, standards and identity, will be central as the club aims for stability and a competitive response to relegation.