Rangers’ hopes of a successful season came to an end following their Europa League quarter-final exit at the hands of Athletic Bilbao.
Despite struggling domestically in both the Scottish Premiership and Cup, the Europa League had offered a glimmer of hope for silverware. However, that dream was dashed after a 2-0 away defeat to the Spanish side, who outperformed Rangers and exposed their attacking weaknesses.
Ianis Hagi was substituted at halftime during the loss, further casting doubt over his future at the club. In the aftermath, he took to social media to address fans.
Hagi’s message to Rangers fans after Europa League exit
With his contract set to expire at the end of the current campaign, Hagi’s future remains uncertain. Although he was praised for his recent equaliser against Aberdeen, his performance against Bilbao drew criticism.
Posting on his Instagram story, the Romanian international expressed his disappointment while thanking supporters:
“Not our night, but your backing never goes unnoticed,” he wrote, showing appreciation for the Rangers faithful.
Uncertainty surrounding Hagi’s future
Unless a new deal is agreed soon, Hagi is on course to leave Ibrox as a free agent. The club itself is in a period of uncertainty, with potential changes in ownership and no clarity on who will be appointed as the next permanent manager.
Any decision regarding Hagi’s future may hinge on those developments. A new manager could opt not to retain him, even if a contract extension is offered now.
Hagi has been a valuable member of the squad, contributing despite injury setbacks. His experience could prove useful during what may be a transitional period for the club.
To date, the 26-year-old has played 129 times for Rangers, scoring 20 goals and registering 28 assists. If he departs for nothing, replacing his output and experience won’t be an easy task.
