Rangers reinforce Their Squad with Impactful New Signings Ahead of the 2025/26 Season
Key Transfers: Joe Rothwell and Emmanuel Fernandez Join Rangers’ Ranks
Rangers have substantially strengthened their lineup by acquiring Bournemouth’s midfielder Joe Rothwell and Peterborough’s defender Emmanuel Fernandez. At 30 years old, rothwell reunites with manager Russell Martin, having previously played under him during a loan stint at Southampton in the 2023/24 season.
Throughout his career, Rothwell has been pivotal in helping clubs secure promotion to the Premier League. His contributions were vital during Southampton’s ascent from the Championship and again last season while on loan at Leeds united.
A product of Manchester United’s youth academy, Rothwell chose to join Rangers over offers from LaLiga teams, marking him as the club’s third signing this summer after Max Aarons arrived on a season-long loan from Bournemouth and Lyall Cameron transferred from Dundee.
Emerging Defensive Star: Emmanuel Fernandez Commits to Rangers
The club continued its recruitment drive by securing 23-year-old center-back Emmanuel Fernandez on a four-year contract following his transfer from League One side Peterborough. The deal reportedly involved a £3.5 million fee plus performance-related add-ons.

fernandez admitted he was pleasantly surprised by Rangers’ interest but welcomed the chance enthusiastically. Having begun his career at Brentford before spells with Gillingham and Ramsgate, he views this move as an excellent platform for development within one of Scotland’s most storied clubs.
A Strong Player-Manager Connection Bolsters Team Spirit
“I’m delighted to have finalized my move here,” said Rothwell. “The reputation of Rangers is immense; once they expressed interest, it was an easy choice.”
“Russell Martin’s leadership made this decision even more straightforward because I understand how he works and what standards he demands,” added rothwell.
The manager praised Rothwell’s influence: “Joe was fantastic to work with during our time together at Southampton. his professionalism and winning mindset will be crucial as we strive for success.”
fernandez Embraces New Challenges Under Martin’s Leadership
“Joining such a historic institution is truly an honor,” stated Fernandez after signing. “While stepping up means notable personal and professional adjustments, I am eager to face these challenges head-on.”
Martin highlighted Fernandez’s attributes: “he brings physical strength and commanding presence that we believe will thrive here given our habitat.”
Pursuit of Defensive depth Continues: Loan Negotiations for Nasser Djiga Progressing

Apart from permanent signings, Rangers are actively negotiating a season-long loan deal for Wolves center-back Nasser djiga. The Burkina Faso international joined Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this year in a £10 million transfer from Red Star Belgrade and still has five years left on his contract at Molineux Stadium.
An Exciting Scottish Premiership Season Awaits With Key Fixtures Announced
Breathtaking season Opener Against Motherwell broadcast Live on Sky Sports
The new Scottish Premiership campaign kicks off with Rangers facing Motherwell away on Saturday August 2nd-a match set for live coverage on Sky Sports-marking Russell Martin’s first league game as head coach since taking charge over the summer period.
Ibrox Welcomes Dundee Followed by High-Stakes Old Firm Derby Clash
The first home game under Martin arrives just one week later when Steven Pressley’s Dundee visit Ibrox Stadium on august 9th. Fans can also look forward to the much-anticipated Old Firm derby against Celtic scheduled for sunday August 31st live on Sky Sports-a fixture that often proves decisive in shaping title races amid intense city rivalry tensions.
Cup Competitions & Crucial Matches Throughout The Campaign
- The return leg against Celtic takes place January 3rd at Celtic Park (live broadcast).
- A final pre-split meeting between these rivals happens february 28th back at Ibrox Stadium.
- derek McInnes’ Hearts visit Ibrox September 13th marks another key early-season encounter testing squad resilience.
- Tough consecutive fixtures versus newly promoted Livingston (September27) followed by Falkirk (October4) will challenge squad depth early in the campaign.
Dense December Fixture List Tests Squad Endurance Without Winter break
- No matches occur Boxing Day; rather games are scheduled around Christmas including Hearts away (December20) then hosting Motherwell (December27).
Dramatic Season Finale And Play-off Battles Set For May
- The final pre-split fixture occurs April11 away versus Falkirk before concluding regular league play mid-May weekend (16-17).
- A high-stakes play-off final slated between May21-24 promises thrilling conclusions across Scotland’s top-flight leagues that year.
“This fresh chapter holds great promise thru strategic acquisitions like Joe Rothwell & Emmanuel Fernandez alongside targeted loans such as Nasser Djiga-all designed toward reclaiming domestic supremacy.” – Club Insider viewpoint




