Ianis Hagi, the 25-year-old Romanian attacker, finds himself playing for Rangers’ B team against Middlesbrough this afternoon.
Hagi had been training with the first team under manager Philippe Clement.
However, his involvement with the B team sends a clear message about his future at the club.
He was notably left out of Rangers’ Champions League squad for their upcoming match against Dynamo Kyiv.
Ianis Hagi is playing for the B team this afternoon against Middlesbrough. https://t.co/hiDt8M5xyR pic.twitter.com/NRL8Ff2Wkg
— This Is Ibrox – Your Rangers Podcast (@thisisibrox) August 5, 2024
New signing Clinton Nsiala and Alex Lowry also featured in the B team match, but Hagi’s inclusion stands out.
The move suggests that he is unlikely to be part of the main squad moving forward.
Hagi’s contract with Rangers runs until 2026, but the club seems eager to cash in on their asset.
They are looking for a substantial transfer fee, having already allowed him to spend last season on loan at Alaves.
If Hagi is leaving, he’s leaving, but surely bombing him out to the B team isn’t the answer.
I’m hoping this is just for fitness, as Clement hasn’t worked with Hagi, so it would paint an awful picture otherwise. https://t.co/lySgVovWFO
— Farva (@FarvaRangers) August 5, 2024
A source close to the club stated, “It’s evident that Hagi is no longer in the first-team plans. The focus is now on finding the right move for him and securing a good transfer fee.”
The Romanian international’s demotion comes as a surprise to many fans who had high hopes for his future at Ibrox.
With the transfer window still open, it remains to be seen which club will secure Hagi’s services.
Fiorentina and Fenerbahce are the frontrunners, but other clubs might also express interest.
