Ianis Hagi Determined to Secure Europa League Squad Spot as Rangers Eye Knockout Glory
Ianis Hagi has set his sights on making an impact in the latter stages of Rangers’ Europa League campaign after missing out on their previous run to the final in 2022 due to a long-term injury. The Romanian playmaker, who was sidelined with a cruciate ligament injury when Rangers reached the Europa League final against Eintracht Frankfurt in Seville, is eager to play a key role this time as Philippe Clement’s side push for European success.
Hagi, now 26, has endured a tough few years, including an exile from the first team at the start of this season. However, after working his way back into Clement’s plans and delivering strong domestic performances—including a recent brace against Ross County—he is hopeful of earning a place in Rangers’ Europa League squad for the knockout rounds.
Hagi’s Desire to Play in Big European Nights
Despite Rangers’ strong showing in the League Phase, finishing eighth overall to secure automatic qualification for the last 16, Hagi was not part of the squad for the group stage matches. However, UEFA rules allow clubs to make three changes to their Europa League squad ahead of the next round, providing Hagi with a potential pathway back into the European fold.
Speaking after his impressive performance against Ross County, Hagi made it clear that he is determined to contribute in Europe:
“I’ve always enjoyed a European night, and hopefully, I can help the team in those games as well, not just in domestic matches. It’s difficult when you don’t play at all—whether it’s a league game, a cup game, or a European match. I want to be on the pitch for a full 90 minutes. That’s my mentality, and that’s what I’m focusing on.”
His comments reflect his hunger to be involved in Rangers’ European push, especially as the squad begins to build the same momentum that carried them to Seville in 2022.
Rangers’ European Momentum and Squad Adjustments
Reflecting on the club’s last Europa League final appearance, Hagi emphasized the importance of building momentum in European competition:
“That run to Seville was fantastic, especially considering how we started. We went down to 10 men against Alashkert and still managed to get into the group stage. Everyone played their part back then. I scored against Brondby to keep our chances alive, and the team carried that belief all the way to the final. You never know what can happen when you get that momentum.”
Rangers are once again gathering momentum in Europe under Philippe Clement. Having successfully navigated the League Phase, they now have the opportunity to refine their squad ahead of the knockout rounds. Clement has three available slots to make changes, with at least two expected to be filled following injuries and departures.
One confirmed space is due to Neraysho Kasanwirjo’s injury, while another has opened up after Kieran Dowell’s departure. Hagi is seen as a likely candidate to step in, along with young defender Clinton Nsiala. However, Rangers also have a decision to make regarding Brazilian forward Danilo, who was not registered for the League Phase.
Rangers’ Squad Selection Dilemma
One key consideration in Rangers’ squad registration is UEFA’s homegrown player rule. Clubs must register at least eight homegrown players (trained in Scotland for three years before turning 21), including at least four who came through the club’s own system. Given Rangers’ current squad makeup, they can only register 21 senior players rather than the usual 25.
At present, Rangers’ homegrown quota is filled by Liam Kelly, John Souttar, Connor Barron, and Bailey Rice. This means Clement’s three available squad changes will be used strategically. With Kasanwirjo’s absence, Danilo could be considered for selection, but that might come at the expense of another player such as Oscar Cortes, who has struggled with injuries.
If Hagi is included, his creativity and technical ability could provide a valuable boost for Rangers in the knockout rounds. His recent form in domestic competition suggests he is regaining his best levels, making him an attractive option for Clement.
The Road Ahead
Rangers’ next challenge will be their last-16 tie, where they will face one of four opponents. The excitement among supporters is growing, with many already dreaming of a return to Spain for the Europa League final in Bilbao this May.
For Hagi, the objective is clear—he wants to be on the pitch when those big European nights arrive. After missing out in 2022, he is determined not to watch from the sidelines again. Whether he makes the final squad will ultimately be up to Philippe Clement, but Hagi has made a strong case for his inclusion.
With momentum building and crucial squad decisions looming, Rangers will hope that this year’s European journey can go one step further than their heartbreak in Seville.