Leicester City have confirmed Russell Martin as their new manager, with the 40-year-old signing a contract that runs until 2029 at the King Power Stadium.
Martin arrives at Leicester eight months after his troubled 123-day spell in charge of Rangers came to a difficult end, taking on a significant rebuilding challenge.
Leicester suffered a shock relegation to League One in 2025-26, compounded by a points deduction and a series of damaging off-field problems throughout the campaign.
The former MK Dons, Swansea, and Southampton manager will be tasked with securing an immediate return to the Championship for the fallen former Premier League champions.
“I’m delighted to be here and excited to begin working with the players and staff,” Martin said in his first public remarks since taking the role.
“This is a club with great history, strong support and high expectations. My immediate focus is on the team: building strong relationships, setting clear standards and creating performances that Leicester City supporters can connect with.”
Leicester’s chief football officer Jon Rudkin described Martin as “a strong leader, a clear decision-maker and someone with a defined way of working” who “is well placed to help us move forward with purpose and direction.”
On the same day, Wolverhampton Wanderers unveiled César Peixoto as their new head coach, replacing Rob Edwards, who was sacked last week after finishing rock bottom of the Premier League with just 20 points.
Peixoto joins Wolves from Portuguese top-flight club Gil Vicente, with whom he finished sixth in the Primeira Liga in 2025-26, and becomes the fourth manager from Portugal in the last seven to take charge at Molineux.
Edwards had reportedly played a significant role in securing the recent signings of Raúl Jiménez and Kieran Trippier before his unexpected dismissal, having himself replaced Vítor Pereira in November.
“I’m proud to be here at this big, historic club in England,” Peixoto said after his appointment was confirmed by the club.
“It’s a big opportunity for me and I’m prepared to do everything to put Wolves where it belongs in the Premier League.”
Wolves chair Nathan Shi expressed confidence in the new appointment, stating that during discussions with Peixoto “it became clear very quickly that he possesses many of the qualities we believe are important for the future of this club.”
Both Midlands clubs have now moved decisively to reshape their footballing structures as they prepare for life outside of their respective divisions next season.
