Leicester City Appoint Russell Martin as New First Team Manager

Leicester City have confirmed the appointment of Russell Martin as the Club’s new First Team Manager, with the former Scotland international signing a three-year contract until 2029.

The 40-year-old arrives at King Power Stadium with an established reputation as one of British football’s most progressive young coaches, bringing a blend of extensive managerial experience, a clear footballing philosophy and a proven track record of player development.

Martin takes charge immediately as Leicester City continue preparations for the 2026/27 season, with the Club aiming to build a strong foundation for the future both on and off the pitch.

Following a thorough recruitment process, Leicester City identified Martin as the ideal candidate to lead the next phase of the Club’s development.

Speaking after his appointment, Martin expressed his excitement about the challenge ahead.

“I’m delighted to be here and excited to begin working with the players and staff,” he said. “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.”

Martin has managed more than 250 professional matches during coaching spells at MK Dons, Swansea City, Southampton and Rangers. Throughout his managerial career, he has earned widespread recognition for his commitment to attractive, possession-based football and his ability to create high-performing team environments.

Leicester City Chief Football Officer Jon Rudkin believes Martin possesses the qualities required to guide the Club forward.

“Russell’s appointment follows a thorough process and reflects the qualities that are important for Leicester City,” Rudkin said. “He is a strong leader, a clear decision-maker and someone with a defined way of working.

“He understands the responsibility that comes with leading the team and he is well placed to help us move forward with purpose and direction.”

Sporting Director James McCarron highlighted the importance of providing Martin with a strong football structure to maximise success.

“Russell will be supported by a football structure focused on alignment, accountability and high standards,” McCarron explained.

“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.”

Martin began his managerial career with MK Dons in November 2019, quickly attracting praise for his distinctive style of play and commitment to developing young talent.

His work in League One earned him a move to Swansea City in 2021, where he spent two seasons in the Championship refining his footballing philosophy and establishing Swansea as one of the division’s most possession-focused sides.

In 2023, Martin joined Southampton and enjoyed one of the most successful periods of his managerial career. During the 2023/24 campaign, he guided the Saints through a club-record 25-match unbeaten run, ultimately securing promotion back to the Premier League.

Before moving into management, Martin enjoyed a highly successful playing career spanning nearly two decades.

The defender made 579 senior appearances for clubs including Wycombe Wanderers, Peterborough United, Norwich City, Rangers, Walsall and MK Dons. More than half of those appearances came during a memorable spell with Norwich City, where he became a key figure and club captain.

Martin also represented Scotland at international level, adding further experience from the highest levels of the game.

Martin’s arrival signals Leicester City’s commitment to a long-term vision built around strong leadership, player development and a clearly defined footballing identity.

With preparations for the 2026/27 season already underway, supporters will be eager to see how the new manager’s philosophy translates onto the pitch as Leicester City embark on an exciting new chapter under his leadership.