Rangers face Club Brugge at Ibrox on Sunday in Russell Martin’s debut as manager of the Scottish club.
This match is Rangers' sole official friendly before they enter the Champions League qualifying rounds.
Coming off a five-game unbeaten streak last season, including a victory over Celtic under previous management, Martin has a foundation to build on as he aims to narrow the gap with their rivals.
This game marks a new beginning for the club and Martin, who is eager to implement his possession-focused style and demonstrate its effectiveness at an elite level.
Rangers have welcomed four new players to Ibrox: Emmanuel Fernandez from Peterborough United, alongside Max Aarons, Lyall Cameron, and Joe Rothwell.
More signings are expected soon, but this friendly is an opportunity for both new and existing players to adapt to Martin’s tactics.
Following this match, Rangers have just 16 days until their Champions League second qualifying round first leg against Panathinaikos, a tie that could shape Martin’s early tenure ahead of the domestic season.
Club Brugge, managed by Nicky Hayen, won’t enter European competition until the third qualifying round, giving them extra time to prepare.
Brugge finished second in their league last season, three points behind champions Union SG.
They’ve bolstered their squad with two key signings, spending around £5m each on Hamburg’s Ludovit Reis and Hannover 96’s Nicolo Tresoldi.
With a roster featuring players who reached the Champions League last 16 last season, defeating Atalanta BC en route, Brugge poses a formidable challenge for Martin’s first outing.
Fernandez and Rothwell joined Rangers’ training this week and may be limited to substitute roles.
Aarons and Cameron, having trained longer, could start.
Players who competed in June’s international matches may be rested or used as substitutes for both teams.
