Rangers midfielder Nicolas Raskin is set for the biggest moment of his international career so far.
The dynamic Rangers star is currently away in North America with the Belgium national team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they opened their Group G campaign in Seattle with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Egypt.
Rudi Garcia’s men have since earned a 2-1 win against Seattle Sounders in a behind-closed-doors friendly match, while the players were also allowed some downtime with friends and family on Tuesday.
Attention now quickly turns to Sunday’s vital second group fixture against Iran in Los Angeles, with Garcia expected to make tactical changes to ensure his side secure a crucial victory.
Which Rangers star will fare the best at the World Cup?
The Gers have six players at the tournament.
Kristof Liberloo hints at Nicolas Raskin start
Respected Belgian sports editor Kristof Liberloo, who is currently embedded with the national squad, providing daily updates to the team back home, has dropped a major hint regarding Garcia’s upcoming team selection.
The Het Belang van Limburg journalist discussed whether local star Hans Vanaken would get the nod to start the next match, but it appears the Rangers midfielder has instead moved into pole position for a starting role.
Liberloo highlighted a significant clue from the training camp that suggests a major promotion for Raskin, who impressed after coming on as a substitute against Egypt.
The Ibrox ace, who has also been assigned pre-match press conference duties, seems primed to add defensive solidity to the Belgian engine room this week.
He said, “I still think Rudi Garcia is going to choose a defensive midfielder like Raskin. He was also announced for tomorrow’s [Thursday’s] press conference.
“That doesn’t mean anything, but it is a bit of an indication that he might be in the team. Unfortunately for Hans Vanaken.”
How many points can Rangers get from their first five league games?
Derek McInnes will be aiming to win the title!
A massive Rangers milestone and transfer windfall
An inclusion in the starting eleven would mark a spectacular World Cup bow for the 25-year-old.
Raskin has shown immense commitment at club, while his tactical discipline and high-pressing ability make him an ideal fit for Garcia’s structural system.
Rangers fans will be watching early on Sunday to see if their midfield engine shines on the global stage.
A strong showing in the tournament could drastically benefit the Ibrox board ahead of a crucial summer transfer window.
The former Standard Liege man is already the subject of significant transfer interest from elite European suitors this summer.
Serie A club Atalanta have been credited with a strong interest, while Tottenham Hotspur are keeping tabs, too.
If Raskin continues to perform well at the World Cup, the Andrew Cavenagh-led club can push his asking price significantly higher.
