What Would Happen If Russell Martin Became Manchester United Manager?
A new Athletic report says Jason Wilcox once rated Russell Martin highly enough to put him forward as a future Manchester United manager.
That was back in 2024, and Wilcox accepted at the time that Martin wasn't ready. Martin is now in charge of Leicester City in League One.
United have not called, but it is Tuesday and we have time, so let's imagine it anyway.
Consider this a work of fiction. The numbers, however, are real.
Day One: The Unveiling
United release a slick video of Martin walking through Carrington with a football philosophy tucked under his arm.
He tells the club media team he wants to play out from the back.
Somewhere in the dressing room, Lisandro Martinez asks if anyone has told Senne Lammens.
Week One: The Press Conference
Martin's career record stands at 284 games, 111 wins and a 39.1% win rate. At the first press conference he describes that as "a process".
Sir Jim Ratcliffe nods along as if it is a number he can work with.
Month One: The Southampton Flashbacks
At Southampton, Martin won once in his first 16 league games after promotion.
Run that rate at Old Trafford and United reach Christmas preparing for life in the Championship.
Wilcox would point out that he stuck with Martin through a slow start at St Mary's, and it turned into a club-record 25-match unbeaten run on the way up.
Month Two: The Rangers Rule
Martin's Rangers spell lasted 17 games and around four months, ending after a 1-1 draw at Falkirk and a police escort from the car park.
By now United's security team have the exit route planned before kick-off.
Month Three: Tactical Innovation
The back four plays out from the back. The goalkeeper plays out from the back. Eventually someone passes the ball back to the stadium announcer for safety.
The Part That Isn't a Joke
Martin took Southampton up through the Championship play-offs in 2024 and was widely admired for how his teams played.
Wilcox's faith in him is well documented.
The real question is whether United would ever give any manager the time that style needs, given how often the board has changed its mind lately.
What Do the Bookies Say?
Not a lot about Russell.
He isn't priced up at the UK betting sites, so he isn't part of the market for now.
In the next permanent Manchester United manager market, Eddie Howe is the 4/6 favourite, with Julian Nagelsmann at 2/1.
| Candidate | Odds |
|---|---|
| Eddie Howe | 4/6 |
| Julian Nagelsmann | 2/1 |
| Unai Emery | 4/1 |
| Antonio Conte | 5/1 |
| Fabian Hurzeler | 8/1 |
Odds correct as of 3 November 2026. Odds are subject to change.
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