Whilst still dividing opinion, Cyriel Dessers has delivered goals for Rangers this season, catching the attention of the iconic Jose Mourinho.
The narrative changes surrounding Dessers seemingly at a weekly rate, with the value of his goals to the Rangers squad compared closely with his actual impact in the buildup itself.
Dessers struggled against Athletic Club, with the Nigerian only registering 18 touches, only to then score against St Mirren in his next appearance, as the confusion grows.
To his credit, Dessers is hungry to win with Rangers and with the 49ers Enterprises takeover edging ever closer, there is renewed ambition for this success to start accelerating with Dessers’ goals hopefully playing a part.
However, the striker has still been a part of some memorable European nights at Ibrox, with one continuing his unexpected camaraderie with Mourinho.
Cyriel Dessers reveals conversation with Jose Mourinho
Before Dessers signed for Rangers, he had been plotting an interesting path through European football, made possible thanks to a 29-goal season at NAC Breda.
He has clearly remained in contact with those in the area as he had given an exclusive interview to local paper, BN DeStem, discussing, amongst other things, his interesting relationship with Mourinho.
On a chat they had when Rangers beat Fenerbahce, Dessers said: “That may be a bit of an exaggeration! I spoke to him in Italy once after a match, and when I play against him now, he recognises me.
“He even comes to say hello after the match! I think that’s quite special. I used to be a Chelsea supporter as a child, so I really grew up with him.”
Mourinho has hinted at his interest in the Rangers job, and whilst he doesn’t look the most likely candidate to replace Barry Ferguson at the end of the season, he would at least have the backing of Dessers as well as plenty of Gers fans.
Moving away from Mourinho, though, Dessers continued to discuss his career highlights and gave a potential hint as to when he may leave Ibrox.
Cyriel Dessers drops hint on his long-term Rangers future
It’s been the Europa League that has given the striker some of his greatest memories and credit from the wider football world, with Mourinho admitting he was worried about Dessers ahead of the second leg against Fenerbahce.
Continuing the interview, though, Dessers picked out his goal in Rangers’ defeat to Manchester United as a particular highlight.
He said: “That is, of course, the pinnacle. My brother also texted me after the match: ‘realize what just happened, you scored at Old Trafford!’ You can also look back on that with pride after your career.”
Reflecting on where his career might end up, though, Dessers didn’t suggest anything soon but hinted at an interest in returning to where he made his name.
Dessers added: “I have kept a few real friends from that period [at NAC Breda]. I still speak to some former teammates now and then. But I hope to return to the city, the stadium and perhaps to the club one day.”
