Ianis Hagi talks about his transfer alternatives and breaks his silence regarding Rangers’ departure.
Ianis Hagi has officially concluded his five-year tenure with Rangers, marking the end of a journey filled with both triumphs and trials. The Romanian midfielder, who joined the club initially on loan in January 2020 before making the move permanent, expressed deep gratitude in an emotional farewell on Instagram. He thanked the staff, teammates, and especially the loyal Rangers fans for their unwavering support throughout his time at Ibrox.
Hagi’s time at Rangers was highlighted by his instrumental role in securing the Scottish Premiership title in the 2020–21 season. However, his journey was not without challenges. A serious knee injury in 2022 sidelined him for a significant period, and upon his return, he faced limited playing opportunities, leading to a loan spell at Deportivo Alavés during the 2023–24 season.
Speculation about his future intensified upon his return to Rangers, with reports linking him to clubs like Strasbourg and Fenerbahçe. Hagi addressed these rumors head-on, dismissing them as “fake news” and reaffirming his commitment to the club. He emphasized his dedication to giving 100% effort, whether playing for the B team, the first team, or elsewhere.
Despite his efforts, Hagi found himself on the periphery of the squad, a situation compounded by a reported contract clause that would trigger a wage increase upon his 100th appearance—a milestone he narrowly missed. Manager Philippe Clement acknowledged that a contract issue had been resolved, allowing Hagi to return to first-team training, describing his return as akin to a new signing.
Throughout these challenges, Hagi maintained a professional demeanor, expressing respect for managerial decisions even when he disagreed with them. He highlighted the support he received from teammates, notably captain James Tavernier, and his father, Romanian football legend Gheorghe Hagi, during difficult times.
As he departs Rangers, Hagi leaves behind a legacy of resilience and passion. While his next destination remains unconfirmed, his unwavering dedication suggests that he will continue to pursue his footballing aspirations with the same fervor that endeared him to the Ibrox faithful.