New Rangers signing Cyriel Dessers acknowledges the challenge of replacing departed striker Alfredo Morelos, but he is resolute in forging his own path at Ibrox. The 28-year-old Nigerian forward, who recently transferred from Cremonese, becomes Michael Beale's sixth addition in the summer transfer window. Dessers signed a four-year contract for a reported fee of approximately £4.5m.
Dessers will be tasked with replacing Colombian striker Morelos, who garnered significant support from fans during his six-year tenure in Govan, where he netted 124 goals before his contract expired at the conclusion of the season.
Addressing the press at Rangers' training facility in Germany, Dessers acknowledged the impressive contributions Morelos made for the team at Ibrox, underscoring the challenge of following in the footsteps of such a talented striker.
However, I must focus on the present rather than dwell on the past. My intention is to contribute positively to Rangers in the present and future, aiming to make a positive impact on and off the field, and hopefully, establish a bond with the fans similar to what I have experienced in the past. The extent of this connection will ultimately rely on our relationship and my actions both on and off the pitch.
"So I am confident that can work."
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Alfredo Morelos scored 124 goals for Rangers
Dessers is one of Beale's new recruits for the upcoming season, joining the likes of Abdallah Sima, Sam Lammers, Jack Butland, Dujon Sterling, and Kieran Dowell. With the aim of reclaiming the cinch Premiership title and the domestic cups from their Old Firm rivals, Celtic, after Celtic's domestic treble last season, more signings are expected as Rangers undertake a re-build. Excited about the prospects, the former Utrecht, Heracles Almelo, and Genk player is looking forward to a fresh start at Ibrox.
He expressed, "Rangers is undoubtedly an enormous club, with an awe-inspiring history, stadium, fans, and even city."
"Moreover, I had a discussion with the manager who elaborated on the current situation."
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Jack Butland has also joined Rangers ahead of the new season
"After not such an easy season, there is a new wind at the club and I want to be a part of that.
"I am currently at an ideal age, 28, where I am in my prime physically and have accumulated valuable experience over the years.
Therefore, I believe this is the perfect time to compete for and potentially win trophies. The mentality of Rangers, which already exists within the team, aligns with my own ambitions and it is evident that I aspire to be a part of that."
"I think I can bring some things, not only football-wise but mentality-wise in the locker room and I hope I can play a role as well in that."
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Cyriel Dessers has joined Rangers from Cremonese
Neil Lennon had mentioned earlier this week that he had been aware of Dessers when he was in charge at Celtic. However, the forward, who was born in Belgium, expressed his contentment with being on the opposing side in Glasgow. Dessers stated, "I was not aware of this during that period."
I have had several conversations with Rangers in the past few years, and our relationship has always been close. Therefore, I am delighted to be here now.
Our initial contact took place during the Covid period, which proved challenging for many clubs in terms of making deals. However, we continued to maintain regular contact and engage in casual conversations thereafter.
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