Former Rangers defender Leon Balogun has taken to social media to send a classy, heartfelt message to an old Ibrox teammate who has just secured a massive summer move.
The veteran Nigerian centre-back is well-known for being an incredibly popular, respected figure inside the Ibrox dressing room during his highly successful spells playing in Glasgow.
Balogun has always maintained incredibly strong, lasting bonds with the core group of players he famously shared the pitch with during Rangers’ historic undefeated Premiership title victory in 2021.
Even though many members of that iconic squad have since departed Govan, the defender clearly continues to closely monitor and support his former colleagues across Europe’s top leagues.
His latest social media interaction proves that the special brotherhood forged during that unforgettable championship-winning season under Steven Gerrard remains completely unbroken to this day.
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Leon Balogun reacts to Cedric Itten transfer
The veteran defender was quick to offer his public support after Swiss international striker Cedric Itten officially confirmed his emotional departure from Fortuna Düsseldorf last week.
Itten enjoyed a phenomenal individual campaign in the 2. Bundesliga by netting 15 goals, but he unfortunately could not prevent his club from suffering a painful relegation.
Despite that collective heartbreak, the 29-year-old’s sharp eye for goal has earned him an immediate, incredible step back up to elite top-flight football with Werder Bremen.
Upon announcing his exit on Instagram, the forward penned a moving farewell to the supporters, which immediately prompted a very warm, supportive response from his old Rangers teammate.
“Dear Fortuna fans, my time at Fortuna Düsseldorf is coming to an end”, Itten wrote on Instagram.
“From day one, I received an incredibly warm welcome from the fans, my teammates, and everyone at the club. I am so grateful for that!
“The support, the passion, and the atmosphere in the stadium were truly special. I will never forget these moments together!
“I always tried to give my all for this club, leave my heart on the pitch, and fight until the very last minute.
“Thank you for your trust and your support. I wish the club, all the staff, and you, fans, all the best for the future! Yours, Cedi.”
Balogun was quick to respect, tipping his hat to Itten for his contributions at Fortuna Düsseldorf and wishing him all the best at Werder Bremen.
“Good luck with the next step, Cedi! You gave it your all, and I’m sure you’ll be remembered fondly by Fortuna!”
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A last Rangers brotherhood
Seeing Balogun publicly back his old teammate highlights the incredible, enduring team spirit that was cultivated inside Auchenhowie during their shared time in Scotland.
The Swiss marksman has shown immense resilience to bounce back from domestic disappointment and secure a highly coveted starting platform in one of the world’s best divisions.
With Itten currently representing Switzerland at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this high-profile Bundesliga move serves as a massive boost for his international and club career.
Rangers supporters will undoubtedly join Balogun in wishing the clinical striker the absolute best of luck as he prepares to embark on this exciting new footballing chapter.
