Barry Ferguson’s Congratulatory Message to New Rangers Head Coach Sparks Fan Frenzy
Rangers Football Club, one of Scotland’s most storied institutions, has always been a hotbed of passion, drama, and unwavering loyalty from its supporters. When club legend Barry Ferguson, who recently stepped down as interim head coach, sent a heartfelt congratulatory message to the newly appointed head coach, Russell Martin, the Ibrox faithful were sent into a whirlwind of emotions. The message, shared via Rangers’ official channels, has ignited a firestorm of reactions, with fans expressing everything from admiration to frustration, proving once again that Ferguson’s connection to the club remains as potent as ever.
Ferguson, a Rangers icon and Hall of Fame member, took charge of the team in February 2025 following the sacking of Philippe Clement. His interim tenure was a rollercoaster, marked by a spirited run to the UEFA Europa League quarter-finals and a memorable Old Firm victory at Celtic Park. Despite finishing the Scottish Premiership season 17 points behind rivals Celtic, Ferguson’s passion and commitment won over many fans. His coaching staff, featuring fellow Rangers legends Neil McCann, Billy Dodds, and Allan McGregor, added to the nostalgic fervor, with supporters relishing the sight of Ibrox heroes in the dugout.
When Rangers confirmed on May 18, 2025, that Ferguson would not continue as head coach, instead returning to an ambassadorial role, the decision divided the fanbase. Some, like fan John quoted by BBC Sport, believed Ferguson “did well with what he had” and deserved a coaching role, while others, such as Murray, criticized his focus on short-term results over squad development. The announcement of Russell Martin, former Southampton and Swansea boss, as the new head coach on a three-year deal further polarized opinions, with some fans skeptical of Martin’s ability to handle the pressure of managing a club of Rangers’ stature.
Ferguson’s congratulatory message, posted shortly after Martin’s appointment on June 5, 2025, was a masterclass in class and diplomacy. “I wish Russell Martin every success in this exciting new chapter for Rangers,” Ferguson said. “I know what this club means to its fans, and I’m confident he’ll feel the passion and expectation. I’ll always be a supporter and ambassador for this great club.” The message, shared across social media, sent Rangers fans into a meltdown. On X, posts ranged from heartfelt gratitude—“Barry, you’ll always be one of us!”—to frustration, with one fan writing, “Why didn’t they give Baz the job? He’s got the club’s DNA!”
The reaction underscores Ferguson’s enduring influence. As a player, he captained Rangers to multiple titles, including the 2002-03 league crown, and his interim stint rekindled that bond. Fans like Neil, quoted by BBC Sport, praised his “decent job” under tough circumstances, while others, as noted in the Daily Record, felt Rangers made a “mistake” not appointing him permanently. Martin, aware of the challenge, acknowledged the fans’ expectations, promising a “dominant, aggressive, and passionate” team.
Ferguson’s message, while gracious, has fueled debate about Rangers’ direction under new US ownership led by Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises. As Martin steps into the Ibrox hotseat, he inherits a fanbase still emotionally tied to Ferguson, whose legacy continues to spark both pride and contention among the Light Blues faithful.
