Ianis Hagi’s future at Rangers appears bleak despite his standout performance for Romania in their Euro 2024 clash against Slovakia, says Chris Jack.
The 25-year-old midfielder featured prominently as Romania secured a spot in the round of 16 with a 1-1 draw on Wednesday, 26 June.
His display led to calls from pundits and fellow players for him to be given another opportunity at Ibrox. However, Rangers Review journalist Jack remains unconvinced that Hagi has the qualities needed to reintegrate into Philippe Clement’s team.
Discussing Hagi’s situation on the Rangers Review YouTube channel on 27 June, Jack was clear in his assessment. “In terms of his Rangers future, I don’t think he has a Rangers future unfortunately for Ianis, I think that ship has sailed as they say,” he remarked.
Jack elaborated on his views, citing Hagi’s lack of dynamism and speed as key factors. “I don’t see it as a case of Hagi has a good summer, then comes back for pre-season, really impresses the manager and then gets in the squad. I don’t think he’s dynamic enough, I don’t think he’s quick enough. I just don’t see him fitting into a Philippe Clement side and I think it is best for him and the club if he moves on.”
For Hagi, the European Championships represent more than just a tournament; they offer a chance to increase his market value. Jack acknowledged the potential benefits for Rangers, “Playing at the Euros, it’s shop window time for Ianis Hagi. There is always going to be an attraction of the Hagi name, clubs will be drawn to that because of the fact you have a shirt that has got Hagi 10 on the back of it, that’s got its own appeal.”
Hagi’s recent loan spell, which did not go as planned, might have dented his value. However, his performances for Romania could help restore it. “The whole loan didn’t work out in the manner that he needed it to and that would have hurt his value, the Gers would have been watching on thinking we’re not going to get much money for this guy. Now Romania are flying high and on the crest of the wave. If Ianis can play his part in the next game, then who knows after that.”
The summer transfer window is just getting started, but Clement and his team at Ibrox have been quick to act, bringing in several new signings aimed at narrowing the gap to Celtic at the top of the table.
Concurrently, there has been a considerable clear-out of the squad, with more exits anticipated. Players like Sam Lammers, Kieran Dowell, and Tom Lawrence are expected to depart before the new season begins.
Clement is determined to streamline his squad, and despite Hagi’s recent form, it seems improbable that he will be granted another opportunity. “They do have to maximise their income from these sales,” Jack noted. The timing of Hagi’s performances at Euro 2024 could not be better, potentially boosting his transfer value.
Ultimately, Hagi’s impressive displays on the European stage may serve as his final contribution to Rangers, offering the club a chance to capitalise financially. As Jack succinctly put it, “Either way, it doesn’t seem as though he has a future at Ibrox.”