Rangers Sitting on a Gold Mine as Nicolas Raskin Shines at World Cup 2026

Nicolas Raskin’s emergence as a linchpin for Belgium at the 2026 World Cup has put Rangers in a position of strength regarding his future — and the Ibrox club stands to cash in handsomely. The 25-year-old midfielder wasn’t a lock for Rudi Garcia’s starting XI when the tournament began. He came off a mixed campaign with Rangers, one that started badly when then-manager Russell Martin accused him of being distracted by transfer talk and dropped him. Raskin eventually fought his way back, logging over 4,000 minutes across all competitions, scoring seven goals and adding nine assists. Martin’s dismissal ultimately worked in his favor. Belgium’s group stage was a slow burn for Raskin. He came off the bench in the opener against Egypt, started against Iran, and was back on the bench for the New Zealand match. Nothing extraordinary. Then came the knockout rounds. Belgium trailed 2-0 to Senegal in the Round of 32 when Garcia made a bold call: he pulled Kevin De Bruyne and Jérémy Doku and sent on Raskin and Dodi Lukébakio. What looked like madness turned into a masterstroke. Raskin’s defensive grit allowed captain Youri Tielemans to push forward, and Tielemans bagged a brace to complete a stunning comeback win. Garcia kept the same formula for the Round of 16 against the United States. Raskin started, once again at the expense of De Bruyne and Doku. Belgium ran out 4-1 winners. Raskin was exceptional in central midfield, cutting off supply to US striker Folarin Balogun and suffocating Mauricio Pochettino’s side. The US was forced into hopeful long balls and wide forays, with little effect. Raskin’s value has broadcasterrocketed. Rangers had already triggered a one-year extension on his contract, which now runs through 2028, but that doesn’t guarantee he stays. Premier League clubs were circling last summer, and recent links with Hull City and Serie A sides have surfaced again. Losing a key player is never easy, but Rangers know they hold the cards. Thanks to Raskin’s World Cup displays, they can demand top dollar.