Cifuentes Determined to Stay and Fight for Rangers Spot Amid Olympiakos Interest

Rangers midfielder José Cifuentes has expressed his determination to stay at Ibrox and fight for his place in the squad, despite interest from Greek giants Olympiakos.

The Ecuadorian international endured a challenging debut season in Glasgow, but with a fresh start under new head coach Russell Martin, he is eager to prove his worth and contribute to the club’s revival.

Cifuentes arrived at Rangers last summer with high expectations following an impressive spell with Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer. However, his first season in Scottish football was marred by inconsistent performances and injury setbacks, leading to speculation over his future at the club.

Olympiakos, who have been monitoring his situation closely, were reportedly prepared to make a move for the 25-year-old this summer.

But Cifuentes, speaking through close sources, has made it clear that he wants to remain at Rangers and show the fans the player he can be. He believes he still has unfinished business in Glasgow and is motivated by the opportunity to thrive under Martin’s leadership.

Russell Martin, who replaced Philippe Clement following last season’s disappointing campaign, has made it a priority to instill belief and competition across the squad.

The former Swansea City manager has told every player that the slate is clean and that everyone will be given a fair chance to impress during pre-season and beyond.

“No one is judged on last season,” Martin said earlier this week. “Everyone will be given an opportunity to show their quality and commitment. We’re building a team culture where work ethic, attitude, and hunger to improve will dictate who plays. That applies to every single player, including those who may not have featured as much last season.”

Cifuentes is said to be encouraged by this approach and has already impressed during early pre-season training sessions. With Rangers embarking on a crucial campaign that includes Champions League qualifiers and a renewed push to reclaim the Scottish Premiership title from Celtic, squad depth and individual resurgence could play a decisive role.

Rangers fans will be watching closely to see whether Cifuentes can rediscover the form that made him one of the most sought-after midfielders in North and South America.

His blend of physicality, passing range, and box-to-box energy could yet become a vital asset for Martin as he reshapes the squad.

The situation remains fluid, with Olympiakos still monitoring developments, but for now, Cifuentes is focused on one thing—earning a place in the starting XI at Ibrox and helping Rangers return to the summit of Scottish football.

Should he deliver on that promise, his decision to stay and fight could be remembered as a turning point in both his career and Rangers’ path back to success.