Nicolas Raskin’s international breakthrough with Belgium is undoubtedly a big moment for him, and from Rangers’ perspective, they’ll see it as validation of his ability. However, the challenge for Raskin now is not just maintaining that level but proving that he can dominate on a consistent basis—something that many before him at Ibrox have failed to do.
There is a clear distinction between excelling in an international match for a strong Belgium side and performing week in and week out in the Scottish Premiership. Against Ukraine, Raskin was able to shine because of the space afforded to him in a system that encourages progressive, high-tempo football. Belgium’s midfield, filled with top-class talent, naturally creates movement, passing lanes, and opportunities for their players to thrive. In Scotland, however, the reality is starkly different.
Rangers, much like Celtic, often dominate possession in domestic games, with smaller teams sitting deep, packing the midfield, and refusing to allow space between the lines. The real test for a midfielder like Raskin isn’t necessarily in a high-intensity, end-to-end game like the Old Firm or a Europa League tie. It’s in the matches where Rangers are expected to break down low blocks, unlock defences, and show patience in possession without becoming predictable. That’s where top midfielders separate themselves from the rest.
We’ve seen this scenario unfold before. Rangers players put in an impressive individual performance in Europe or on the international stage, only for the hype to fade when they return to the grind of domestic football. Players like Glen Kamara, Fashion Sakala, Ianis Hagi, and even Alfredo Morelos were all linked with moves away after big performances in Europe, yet they remained at Ibrox longer than expected, with their perceived value dropping over time. The Rangers fanbase and certain sections of the media are often quick to build up their players as the next big thing, but the true test comes when they have to deliver every single week in Scotland.
Celtic fans will be more than familiar with this pattern. While Rangers supporters may be celebrating Raskin’s emergence, the question remains: can he maintain that level over the course of a full season? Celtic’s midfield, in contrast, has been filled with players who not only thrive in big games but also dictate play against compact defences. The likes of Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate, and Matt O’Riley have all demonstrated the ability to break down stubborn teams, not just shine in high-profile matches. That’s what separates good midfielders from truly great ones.
Another important factor in this discussion is the way Rangers’ system is set up. Their struggles against low blocks in the past have been well documented, with too many of their midfielders guilty of passing sideways and failing to inject tempo into the game. Raskin, if he truly is as talented as some now suggest, will need to show that he can be the difference-maker in these scenarios. If he simply recycles possession without purpose or fails to break the lines with incisive passing, then his hype will be exposed as premature.
Beyond the tactical side of things, there’s also the question of whether he’s truly on the trajectory to leave Rangers soon. The Belgian media may be talking about him now, but let’s be realistic—if Raskin was truly at an elite level, he wouldn’t have been at Rangers in the first place. The Scottish Premiership has produced top players, but very few leave directly for the biggest clubs in Europe unless they have proven themselves as undisputed stars in the league first.
If Raskin was in the same bracket as Steven Defour at his peak, as some are suggesting, then clubs in the English Premier League, La Liga, or the Bundesliga would already be lining up for him. The reality is that, at 24 years old, he is only just beginning to find his feet at international level and still has a lot to prove at club level. If he truly wants to move to a top-five league, he needs to dominate the Scottish Premiership first.
For now, Raskin’s performances will be scrutinized far more closely. His display for Belgium may have bought him more attention, but with that comes higher expectations. If he fails to deliver consistently for Rangers in the league, the hype will quickly die down. The best midfielders don’t just show flashes of brilliance—they influence every game, impose themselves regardless of the opposition, and make a lasting impact.
The upcoming Old Firm matches will be another major test for him. If he wants to prove that he is truly at the level Rangers fans hope, then he needs to show that he can dominate against Celtic, where the pressure is at its highest. He must also demonstrate that he can be the difference in games where Rangers are expected to control possession and break down defensive sides.
Ultimately, the Belgian media may be talking him up now, but his future is still very much in his own hands. If he can master the art of dictating play in Scotland, show his ability to control the tempo against defensive teams, and make himself indispensable in Rangers’ biggest games, then and only then will the idea of a big move become a reality.
Until then, he remains another Rangers player with potential but not yet a proven star. Celtic will certainly be watching with interest, knowing that they’ve seen similar situations play out before—where the hype outweighs the reality. The next few months will determine whether Raskin is genuinely on the rise or just another name on a long list of players who briefly shone before fading into the background.