Leicester City has appointed Russell Martin as their new First Team Manager.
Russell, who has managed more than 250 games and combines extensive coaching experience with a playing career at the highest level of English football, has signed a contract until 2029 and begins work immediately as preparations continue for the 2026/27 campaign.
The 40-year-old Martin joins Leicester eight months after his nightmare 123-day stint in charge of Rangers came to an end.
Prior to his spell in Scotland he had successful spells managing MK Dons, Swansea City and Southampton.
Martin, said: “I’m delighted to be here and excited to begin working with the players and staff. This is a Club with great history, strong support and high expectations, and I’m 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 Sporting Director James McCarron said: “Russell will be supported by a football structure focused on alignment, accountability and high standards. Our role is to make sure the right environment is in place around the team.
“That means creating an environment where players and staff can perform at their best, strengthening the culture across the football operation and ensuring our work in recruitment, development and performance is aligned and consistent.”
Russell’s extensive playing career saw him make 579 appearances for the likes of Wycombe Wanderers, Peterborough United, Norwich City, Rangers, Walsall and MK Dons – with over half of those appearances coming for Norwich City.
His first managerial position was with MK Dons in November 2019 in League One, where his style of play earned many plaudits, leading to a move to Swansea City in the summer of 2021.
After two seasons in the Championship with the South Wales side, he joined Southampton for the 2023/24 season – which included a club-record 25-game unbeaten run that ultimately led to promotion to the Premier League.
