Mike Williamson Joins Rangers as First-Team Coach Following Carlisle Exit

Former Carlisle United head coach Mike Williamson has made a swift return to professional football, having been appointed first-team coach at Scottish giants Rangers.

The 41-year-old joins the Ibrox club just five months after parting ways with Carlisle United, where his tenure ended in disappointment amid relegation fears.

Williamson’s appointment comes under the stewardship of new Rangers manager Russell Martin, who is assembling his backroom team ahead of what promises to be a critical season for the Glasgow outfit.

With European football once again on the horizon, Rangers are looking to bounce back strongly after a mixed 2024/25 campaign that saw them fall short in key domestic and continental competitions.

For Williamson, the move represents a significant step up and a fresh opportunity to rebuild his coaching credentials at one of Scotland’s most storied clubs. While his time at Carlisle ended on a sour note — with the Cumbrians languishing in the League Two relegation zone — the former Newcastle United defender had previously earned plaudits for his tactical acumen and leadership during his spell at Gateshead, where he began his managerial career.

Speaking on his appointment, Williamson expressed his excitement at the new challenge. “I’m honoured to be joining a club of Rangers’ stature. This is a fantastic opportunity to work with top-level players and contribute to the success Russell and the team are building here. I’ve learned a lot in recent years, and I’m looking forward to bringing that experience into this new environment.”

Russell Martin, himself recently installed as Rangers boss after leaving Southampton, praised Williamson’s footballing intelligence and character. “Mike is someone I’ve admired for a while.

He has a calm authority, a deep understanding of the game, and a strong work ethic. His experience both as a player and a coach will be invaluable to us as we aim to compete on all fronts this season.”

Williamson’s arrival is part of a broader reshuffle at Ibrox as Martin seeks to put his stamp on the squad and coaching staff. With pre-season preparations already underway, Rangers are focused on hitting the ground running, especially with the early stages of European qualifiers fast approaching.

Fans will be watching closely to see how the new-look coaching team gels and whether it can restore the club’s dominance in Scottish football. For Williamson, the role offers a chance at redemption — a platform to re-establish his coaching credentials at a club where expectations are sky-high.

While his recent stint at Carlisle ended in relegation, his move to Rangers marks a fresh chapter — and potentially the most high-profile role of his coaching career to date.