Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers has dismissed speculations about a potential exit from Rangers, insisting he was never looking to leave but only wanted more game time.
At the start of the year, Dessers found himself struggling for minutes as Hamza Igamane took over as Rangers’ first-choice striker. This led to transfer rumors, with clubs from Serie A and Ligue 1 reportedly making inquiries about his availability.
The Nigerian forward, who had been linked with a move last summer, once again attracted interest in January. However, despite the speculation, he remained focused on proving his worth at Ibrox.
Dessers: “I Never Wanted to Leave – I Just Wanted to Play”
Speaking to Daily Record, Dessers admitted that while offers came in, his goal was always to stay and fight for his place in the team.
“At the start of the month, I wasn’t playing much, and as a striker who had already hit double figures, naturally, there was interest.”
“Some clubs reached out to my agent asking if a move was possible. But I spoke with Nils Koppen a few times, and we had good conversations about the situation. Three weeks later, I’m still here, and I’m very happy. I never wanted to leave—I just wanted to play.”
January Goal of the Month Winner
Dessers’ resurgence has not gone unnoticed. The Nigerian forward has been in red-hot form, contributing six goals and one assist in his last five games.
His efforts were recently recognized as he won Rangers’ January Goal of the Month award for his stunning strike against Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League.
In that game at Old Trafford, Dessers used his strength to outmuscle Harry Maguire, controlled the ball brilliantly on his left side, and then swept a clinical finish into the bottom corner.
Despite Rangers losing 2-1, his goal stood out as a moment of brilliance, earning him the club’s top individual accolade for January.
Back in Form and Looking Ahead
Since the close of the transfer window, Dessers has rediscovered his best form, and his performances have helped him regain the trust of coach Philippe Clement.
With 29 months left on his contract, Dessers looks set to stay at Ibrox unless unforeseen circumstances arise. If he continues his fine form and helps Rangers secure silverware, he could even earn a contract extension.