Rangers fans got their first real glimpse of Russell Martin’s tenure in action as the Light Blues battled to a 2–2 draw against Belgian giants Club Brugge at Ibrox. And while pre-season matches are never about the result, there was plenty to dissect across the ninety minutes—from tactical experiments and new signings, to individual performances and positional questions that still need answers.
Brugge came to Glasgow with intent, fielding a strong XI that looked ready for competitive football. Rangers, meanwhile, took a more mixed approach, blending youth, new signings, and returning squad members across both halves. Here’s what we learned from an eventful afternoon in Govan.
A Disjointed Start That Highlighted Familiar Problems
The game couldn’t have started much worse from a Rangers perspective. Within 15 minutes, the Ibrox side were two goals down and looked all over the place. The structure was lacking, the backline was exposed, and there was a lack of urgency across the park.
The opener came after Robin Pröpper, starting in central defence, pushed too high and tried a risky pass that was easily intercepted. He couldn’t recover in time and Brugge capitalised, cutting through the exposed space to take the lead through Hugo Vetlesen. Moments later, Leon King headed the ball straight into danger, where Brugge’s Ludovit Reis unleashed a stunning volley into the top corner—worthy of applause from some inside Ibrox.
The defensive pairing of King and Pröpper simply didn’t work. Neither looked comfortable under pressure, and both struggled with the physical side of the game. For all the early talk of building from the back, it was clear that these two don’t fit Martin’s system. They lacked composure, presence, and any sort of authority on the ball. Based on this performance, their days as regulars at Ibrox may well be numbered.
Midfield Opportunities Missed – and Taken
Kieran Dowell was handed a start in midfield but failed to make the most of it. Despite a decent loan spell at Birmingham City last season, he looked hesitant in possession, struggled to drive the team forward, and often ran out of ideas in the final third. These are the types of matches where fringe players need to make a statement—Dowell didn’t.
By contrast, Mohamed Diomande showed exactly why he’s likely to be a key figure this season. Introduced at half-time, he immediately lifted the tempo, pressed with intent, and scored a beautiful curling goal to bring Rangers back into the match. His energy and composure on the ball made a huge difference, and it’s clear he’ll be central to Martin’s plans.
Tavernier’s Influence – and a New Role?
James Tavernier, who came on at half-time in an unexpected role as a right-sided centre-back, helped steady the ship. While not his natural position, it allowed Max Aarons to push forward more freely, and Tavernier’s leadership and ability to recycle possession gave Rangers more control.
Aarons, making his debut, started slowly. There were early signs of nerves, but he gradually grew into the match—especially once Tavernier came on. This combination could be something we see again this season, particularly in games where Rangers are looking to dominate possession and push their full-backs high.
Oscar Cortes – Effort Without End Product (Yet)
Cortes worked hard throughout his time on the pitch and tracked back impressively, especially in the first half when Rangers were under pressure. But in the final third, he seemed hesitant. He rarely looked to take on his man and often opted for early or aimless crosses into the box. That said, this wasn’t a disasterclass. Cortes showed a good engine and willingness to press—there’s hope he can kick on with more confidence and match fitness.
Curtis Impresses in a Breakthrough Display

Perhaps the biggest positive of the afternoon was young Findlay Curtis. The 19-year-old was the only Rangers player to play the full 90 minutes and didn’t look out of place. He was clever in possession, offered good movement, and capped off his performance with a confident finish late in the game to level the match. His link-up with Bajrami in the build-up was superb, and it felt like a moment where Curtis truly announced himself to the Ibrox faithful.
More Young Talent on Show – With Promise
Curtis wasn’t the only youngster to impress. Bailey Rice, introduced at half-time, slotted into midfield with a maturity beyond his years, helping Diomande control the tempo. Josh Gentles also had lively moments, including a chance inside the box he couldn’t quite sort out from under his feet. Zander Hutton came on at right-back and did well defensively. There’s clearly a strong youth pipeline forming, and Russell Martin doesn’t appear shy about giving these kids real minutes.
Bajrami – A Surprise Turnaround in Form?
Let’s be honest—Bajrami came in for heavy criticism last season, and rightly so at times. But credit where it’s due: he was good in this match. His run and assist for Curtis’ equaliser were superb—full of pace, strength, and smart decision-making. He also played a big part in releasing Aarons down the right earlier in the second half for a clear-cut chance.
If Martin can extract these kinds of performances regularly, then Bajrami might just have a future at Ibrox after all.
Fernandez Shows Potential – But Still Raw

New signing Emmanuel Fernandez looked every inch the physical presence Rangers have lacked in recent years. He won his duels, showed threat from set-pieces, and generally looked assured. However, there was a lapse in concentration when Butland threw the ball out quickly—Fernandez switched off momentarily, but recovered well.
There’s rawness there, for sure, but also real potential. With the right coaching, he could become an important player this season.
Firepower Still Missing Up Front
Rangers struggled to create clear chances in the first half and looked toothless in attack at times. Danilo toiled away but was largely isolated, and there was little support from midfield runners. The lack of genuine wide threats or strikers coming off the bench was telling.
With question marks around the futures of Cyriel Dessers and Hamza Igamane, it’s clear Rangers need reinforcements in the forward line. Martin will likely be targeting at least three wide players and possibly another striker. The club simply can’t afford another season of relying on inconsistent goal scorers.
Transfer Priorities Sharpen Into Focus
Post-match, Martin confirmed that Rangers are still looking to add more defenders—and it’s easy to see why. With Pröpper and King struggling and Nsiala still young and inconsistent, depth is badly needed. Martin also hinted that Nsiala may go out on loan to get regular minutes.
That feels like a smart move. The big centre-half has potential, but he needs experience. Letting him leave permanently would feel like a missed opportunity, especially when Rangers are trying to rebuild sensibly.
Final Thoughts – A Mixed Bag, but Plenty of Clues
This wasn’t the perfect performance. Far from it. But it was an honest, valuable run-out that gave fans a first look at the new manager, new signings, and some emerging talents from the academy.
Rangers showed spirit to come back from two down, something that bodes well for the culture Martin is trying to instil. But the first 15 minutes also served as a warning: the rebuild isn’t done, and there are players in this squad who simply aren’t up to the standard Rangers need.
That said, with standout moments from Diomande, Tavernier, Curtis, and Bajrami, there’s something to build on. Now, it’s off to St George’s Park for a week of intensive training—expect more developments, more signings, and hopefully a sharper Rangers side next time out.
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