Rangers are about to make a move that, at first glance, might seem pretty low-key. But it only takes a closer look to realize that going after Nasser Djiga is far more than just a routine loan deal. It’s a smart, calculated move from a club that’s ambitious but grounded. While some fans are still getting used to the arrivals of Max Aarons and Joe Rothwell, the Wolverhampton defender is now emerging as the next name on the list. And even though Djiga’s time in England was almost invisible, that doesn’t make him a bad bet. Quite the opposite.
Djiga is just 22. He was signed by Wolves at the very end of the last transfer window. He arrived, put on the jersey, stepped onto a Premier League pitch... and was taken off at halftime. After that, he faded into the background. No rhythm, no run of games, just another young talent left floating between the bench and the stands. That kind of start leaves a bad impression, no doubt. But it doesn’t have to be the end of the story.
Scottish soccer might be just what Djiga needs to find playing time and rebuild his confidence. And Rangers could gain a lot from giving him that shot.
Rangers’ approach to risk and rebuild
Rangers are reshaping their squad. Not tearing it down, but making smart moves. Coach Russell Martin is looking to the Premier League for reinforcements, but with a sharp eye. Max Aarons joined on loan from Bournemouth. Rothwell has already worked with Martin at Southampton. Their reunion feels natural, and Rothwell could bring more energy to the midfield. Now Djiga becomes part of that picture too, though he’s coming in under different circumstances. He doesn’t have the same mileage in English soccer, and that makes this an even more interesting call.
It’s easy to label Djiga as one more player who “couldn’t make it” in the Premier League. But what exactly were the expectations? A young African center-back, fresh into the English game, trying to settle in a squad going through coaching changes mid-season? His one league start ended with him subbed off at the break. It happened, sure. But that reflects the team’s moment more than it reflects Djiga’s quality.
Before Wolves, he had meaningful minutes with Basel and Red Star Belgrade. In total, he’s played 78 matches at the club level and has another 23 European games under his belt. That’s not minor experience.
Why this move makes sense now
Bringing Djiga in on loan right now is a low-risk move with solid upside. Rangers aren’t spending big. They’re making space for a young, physical defender with international experience who really just needs a coach willing to let him play.
Djiga is comfortable on the ball, solid in one-on-one duels and strong in buildup play. That’s exactly where Rangers could turn this into something valuable. And Scottish soccer, which tends to be less tactically rigid than the Premier League, might offer him the freedom to grow. Far from being a step down, this could be the ideal setup for someone like Djiga to get back on track.