Leon Balogun Suffers Cheekbone Fracture in Rangers’ Loss to Athletic Bilbao
Rangers centre-back Leon Balogun sustained a cheekbone injury during the 2-0 defeat to Athletic Bilbao on Thursday night.
The Nigerian international started the second leg but was forced off in the second half after taking a knock to the face. At 36, Balogun has been a dependable figure in Rangers’ backline this season, providing valuable experience and stability.
Balogun Could Require Surgery Following Fresh Injury Setback
With teammate Dujon Sterling already sidelined long-term after Achilles surgery, Balogun could now join the injury list. The veteran defender confirmed he has fractured his cheekbone for the fourth time in his career and may need a minor operation.
“I’ve fractured my cheekbone again – probably the fourth time in my career,” Balogun told the BBC. “I knew instantly and told the doctor, but asked if I could stay on. The pain tends to kick in a few minutes later, so it wasn’t worth the risk. We’ll assess the damage, but I might need a small procedure and a few days’ rest. Then I could play again with a protective mask.”
Unlike Sterling, Balogun remains hopeful the injury won’t sideline him for the rest of the campaign, with five league games remaining.
Rangers Face Decision on Balogun’s Future
Balogun’s contract runs until 2025, but with age and recurring injuries mounting, questions linger over his long-term role at the club. This latest setback, paired with his post-match comments about Rangers’ lack of quality against Bilbao, may add to concerns about his continued competitiveness at the highest level.
As the club deals with a disappointing season and an impending ownership change, the new regime may opt to prioritise younger, more robust players. Any decision on Balogun’s future is likely to wait until the takeover is complete, with a strategic rebuild potentially on the horizon.
