Nico Raskin's trajectory this season is nothing short of remarkable. Once deemed surplus to requirements at Rangers, he now stands out prominently in Belgium's quest for World Cup glory. As he prepares to face Spain in the quarter-finals in Los Angeles, Raskin reflects on a tumultuous past few months that seem a world away from the early struggles of the season.
The 25-year-old midfielder endured an unexpected drop from the Rangers squad, thanks to then-manager Russell Martin, who, quite controversially, chose Joe Rothwell over him as a preferred midfielder. Raskin's dismissal from the lineup, particularly noticeable during the crucial early fixtures, left many bewildered, especially following speculation of potential moves to Turkish clubs like Besiktas and Fenerbahce.
Ironically, as Martin's tenure faltered, Raskin's stock surged. After being frozen out of the team, he embarked on international duty and netted his inaugural goal for Belgium against Kazakhstan, showcasing his potential on the global stage. Meanwhile, Martin's words implied a need for Raskin to regain trust, yet Martin found himself sacked just weeks later after a difficult start to the season.
In stark contrast to Martin's fading career at Leicester City, Raskin thrived under the guidance of new manager Danny Rohl, who recognized Raskin's qualities that his predecessor failed to appreciate. Rohl's explicit support for Raskin led to a revitalization of the midfielder's role at Rangers, allowing him to showcase his talents and help stabilize the team's challenging position in the league.
With Raskin starting to hit his stride, Rangers recognized the inevitable interest in him from bigger clubs. Now firmly positioned in a pivotal role, he's actively drawing attention from Serie A clubs Atalanta and Bologna, as well as Premier League teams like Tottenham and Hull City. The potential transfer could very well eclipse Rangers' previous club record of £20 million, set when Ajax acquired defender Calvin Bassey.
Despite the absence of silverware during his tenure at Rangers, with 145 appearances under his belt but no trophies, Raskin has turned his challenges into growth opportunities. His World Cup performances have strongly positioned him as one of Belgium's standout players. He has been indispensable throughout the tournament, contributing significantly in a high-pressure environment.
Initially, the World Cup kicked off slowly for Raskin, who was used as a substitute in the opening match against Egypt. However, he made a name for himself as he assisted Romelu Lukaku in a crucial victory against New Zealand, propelling Belgium forward in the knockout rounds. His entrance during a critical game against Senegal showcased his ability, where he helped his team overturn a 2-0 deficit, demonstrating his quick adjustment and determination. That performance earned him a starting position in the following knockout match against the USA, where he further enhanced his profile by adding to Belgium's goal tally.
Raskin's commendable contributions have not gone unnoticed, with veteran goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois praising him as a “driving force” on the pitch. With Raskin's blend of defensive diligence and offensive creativity, he has epitomized the spirit of Belgium's campaign this season.
As Belgium gears up for a challenging encounter against Spain, a team noted for its impressive unbeaten streak, Raskin's readiness to clash with elite players like Rodri and Pedri reflects his rising status. This match represents not just another opportunity for him to shine but also a chance to solidify his journey from the sidelines at Rangers to a defining player on the world stage.
While Raskin continues to navigate this pivotal juncture in his career, Rangers are bracing for potential bids, with their star asset now primed to draw significant interest. Raskin’s evolution over the past year serves as a testament to his resilience and capability, suggesting that he may soon find himself at a new club, ready to conquer fresh challenges.