Russell Martin Emerges as Leading Candidate for Columbus Crew Role

Columbus Crew have identified Russell Martin as one of the leading contenders to become their next head coach following Wilfried Nancy’s departure to Celtic at the end of the 2025 MLS season.

The 39 year old Scottish coach is understood to be on a final shortlist as the reigning MLS Cup holders begin the search for a successor to the man who reshaped the club’s modern identity. For Martin, the move would mark his first managerial role in North America.

Martin’s name has surfaced despite a challenging recent spell in Europe, with Columbus weighing profile, philosophy, and long term fit. The Crew are believed to be prioritizing a coach capable of maintaining a possession based style while evolving the squad for the next phase of their cycle.

The vacancy was created in December 2025 when Nancy accepted the Celtic job, bringing an end to a hugely successful three year tenure in Ohio. His exit prompted immediate planning behind the scenes, with Columbus determined to avoid disruption ahead of the new MLS campaign.

Martin’s managerial journey has taken him across England and Scotland. He began his coaching career in the English Football League, working his way through roles at Milton Keynes Dons, Swansea City, and Southampton. His Southampton spell earned widespread praise after he guided the club back to the Premier League before being dismissed during the subsequent top flight season.

In June 2025, Martin returned to Scotland to take charge of Rangers, but his time in Glasgow proved brief. He was dismissed in October after a difficult 17 match run that left the club struggling for consistency and results.

Columbus are now assessing whether Martin’s tactical principles and developmental approach align with their ambitions. The Crew are entering a period of recalibration after finishing seventh in the Eastern Conference in 2025, a campaign that ultimately preceded Nancy’s move to Celtic for an undisclosed fee.

Nancy’s legacy remains significant. He transformed Columbus into one of Major League Soccer’s dominant forces, delivering the 2023 MLS Cup, the 2024 Leagues Cup, and a run to the CONCACAF Champions Cup final. Replacing that influence will be a major challenge for whoever steps into the role.

The coming weeks are expected to be decisive as Columbus narrow their options. For Martin, the opportunity would represent a fresh start and a chance to apply his ideas in a new footballing environment, while for the Crew, the appointment will shape their direction in a highly competitive MLS landscape.