Nico Raskin has been backed to 'make his mark anywhere' if he decides to leave Rangers this summer, following his standout performances for Belgium at the World Cup. The 25-year-old midfielder has been hailed as Belgium's best player at the tournament, appearing in all six matches as the Red Devils reached the quarter-finals before a narrow 2-1 defeat to Spain on Friday night.
Raskin's World Cup Impact and Transfer Interest
Raskin's displays in North America have attracted attention from a host of European clubs, including English Premier League newcomers Hull City and Serie A duo Atalanta and Bologna. The Rangers star has been a key figure for club and country, and his former youth coach at Standard Liege, Stephane Guidi, believes he is ready for a top-level move.
Speaking to Sudinfo Sports, Guidi said: "We brought him in from Gent. I was struck by his natural class. Nico can do it all: defend, distribute the ball, break through opposition lines, and score, too. He showed such initiative and was so receptive to instruction that it didn't take long for him to join the first-team squad—initially just to train with them."
Former Coaches and Players Praise Raskin
Guidi added that Raskin needed to bring more discipline to his game, which he did. "He had a tendency to try to do a bit too much by constantly demanding the ball. I hear that Premier League clubs are interested. That comes as no surprise. Whether with Glasgow Rangers or the national team, he has proven his quality. Nicolas Raskin could go anywhere he wants today and make his mark."
Former Inter Milan, Roma and Belgium star Radja Nainggolan also lavished praise on Raskin. "Nico Raskin is the most important player for the Red Devils," he stated. "Period. He proved that against Senegal and the USA. He recovers balls and has a good passing game. He is now an automatic first choice pick. There is no doubt about that."
Nainggolan and Buffel on Raskin's Role
Nainggolan emphasized the importance of balance in the team, saying: "Every country plays with a true defensive midfielder, which is obviously logical. It is not rocket science. There must be balance in a team. Raskin has not disappointed even once and is a player who can support the other players like no one else in the team. He has delivered rock-solid performances."
Ex-Rangers star turned pundit Thomas Buffel added: "He is someone who can press very aggressively. But he also has very good footwork. He can really play his way out of pressure."
Future at Rangers and Potential Move
With Raskin under contract at Rangers, any transfer would likely command a significant fee. The club values the midfielder highly, and his World Cup exploits have only increased his market value. As interest from England and Italy intensifies, the summer window could see a major move for the Belgian international.
