The pressure is mounting on Rangers manager Russell Martin as his team prepares to face Celtic in the first Old Firm derby of the season. Following a disastrous 6-0 defeat to Club Brugge in the Champions League play-off, resulting in a 9-1 aggregate loss, Martin is already facing calls for his dismissal from disgruntled Rangers supporters. The team's failure to secure a win in the league thus far this season further intensifies the scrutiny.
Adding to the tension, Celtic have had a strong start to their title defense, winning all three of their league games. This places them six points ahead of Rangers, increasing the stakes for the upcoming derby at Ibrox. While Celtic also suffered a Champions League exit, losing to FC Kairat, their domestic form provides a stark contrast to Rangers' struggles.
Martin has acknowledged the need for a significant response following the defeat to Club Brugge. He has made five changes to the starting eleven, including handing a debut to new signing Bojan Miovski. Captain James Tavernier returns to the lineup. However, Nico Raskin is notably absent from the squad amid reports of a strained relationship with Martin.
Despite the external pressure, Martin insists he retains the backing of the Rangers board. He emphasized the importance of learning from the recent defeat and displaying character and growth moving forward. Goalkeeper Jack Butland echoed this sentiment, stating that the players need to take more responsibility and repay the manager's support with improved performances.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers, while expressing frustration with the club's transfer business, will be looking to capitalize on Rangers' vulnerability. New signing Michel-Ange Balikwisha is likely to debut, and Kieran Tierney is set to feature in his first Old Firm match since 2019. Rodgers emphasized the importance of focusing on performance and playing without fear to secure a victory.
The Old Firm derby is renowned for its unpredictable nature, and this encounter is no exception. The match takes place today, Sunday, August 31, 2025, with a 12pm BST kick-off at Ibrox Stadium in Glasgow. Sky Sports will broadcast the game live in the UK, with coverage beginning at 11am BST on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Football, and Sky Sports Ultra HDR.
A defeat for Rangers would leave them trailing Celtic by nine points in the Premiership, further intensifying the pressure on Russell Martin. While Rangers have been unbeaten in the last three meetings against Celtic, the current circumstances heavily favor the visitors. Pundits predict a 2-0 victory for Celtic, highlighting Martin's lack of experience in this fixture and the potential for his early departure should Rangers suffer a heavy defeat. The match promises to be a tense and captivating affair, with significant implications for both clubs and their managers.
