Cyriel Dessers’ future at Rangers is looking increasingly uncertain as his role in the team has diminished significantly, especially following his no-show in the recent defeat to Dundee. Just a few months ago, Dessers was a regular starter under previous manager Michael Beale, playing in both the Scottish Premiership and Europa League. Despite being the club’s top scorer this season with 12 goals in all competitions, things have quickly changed for the 30-year-old Belgian-born Nigerian striker. Dessers has been relegated to third choice in the pecking order behind Hamza Igamane and Danilo, making his potential departure in January appear more likely than ever before.
A return to Serie A seems to be on the horizon for Dessers, with Italian clubs Empoli and Cagliari reportedly interested in his services. Although no formal contact has been made by either club yet, Rangers are said to have engaged in preliminary talks with other interested parties. Given Dessers’ contract situation—over two years remaining and at an age where his value may start to decline—Rangers are open to selling him in January rather than holding onto him longer and risking a decrease in transfer value. This decision, from a financial standpoint, seems sensible, especially as they look to strengthen their squad and free up resources.
From a sporting perspective, however, the decision to sell Dessers is less straightforward. Despite his reduced role in recent months, Dessers’ experience and his physical presence in attack could still be valuable to Rangers, especially in a season that will involve both domestic and European commitments. Although he has started only one of the last eight league matches and didn’t feature at all in the defeat to Dundee, the club’s attack remains reliant on the fitness and form of Igamane and Danilo. If either player were to suffer a dip in form or, more critically, another injury setback, Rangers would need options, and Dessers, despite his flaws, could still provide an important contribution.
Former Rangers striker Ross McCormack recently voiced his support for Dessers, emphasizing that, despite his inconsistencies in front of goal, he rates Dessers higher than Danilo. McCormack praised Dessers’ strength, tenacity, and work rate, stating that he would pick Dessers over Danilo any day. However, McCormack acknowledged that he would choose Igamane ahead of Dessers, recognizing the Moroccan’s potential. This endorsement from McCormack highlights the contrasting views of Rangers fans and former players regarding the striker’s value to the team, with many still appreciating Dessers’ work ethic and leadership in attack.
One factor that could play into Rangers’ decision is the future of Hamza Igamane, who has also been linked with a move away from Ibrox. Reports suggest that Everton have shown interest in the young Moroccan, but Rangers are determined to retain him for the time being. Manager Philippe Clement, who has experience handling high-profile player transfers, is well aware of the eventual inevitability that Igamane will leave the club at some point in the future. However, Clement has made it clear that he is hoping that this day will not come too soon. While he acknowledged the club’s discussions regarding contracts, Clement stated that decisions about Igamane’s future were ultimately in the hands of the club’s CEO Patrick Stewart and technical director Nils Koppen.
Rangers’ stance on keeping Igamane and potentially moving Dessers reflects their broader strategic considerations. While Dessers’ departure could free up space in the squad and provide a financial windfall, keeping Igamane could prove to be more beneficial in the long term, particularly as he has the potential to grow into a key player for the club. Rangers’ focus on balancing both domestic and European campaigns means that any departures will need to be carefully managed to avoid disrupting squad depth, especially in attack. The potential loss of Dessers could leave Rangers needing to bolster their forward options in January, and the club will need to consider all factors before making a final decision on his future.
In conclusion, the possibility of Cyriel Dessers leaving Rangers in January seems increasingly likely given his reduced role in the squad and the club’s openness to selling him. A return to Serie A could offer a fresh start for the striker, while Rangers look to manage their squad and financial situation. Whether or not they can hold onto Hamza Igamane, meanwhile, will be a crucial factor in their decision-making process moving forward. The next few weeks could be pivotal in shaping the club’s attack for the remainder of the season.