**Nicolas Raskin’s Cryptic Response to Russell Martin Sparks Outrage After Celtic Snub**
Rangers midfielder Nicolas Raskin has ignited a firestorm of controversy following his exclusion from the squad for the Old Firm derby against Celtic on August 31, 2025, which ended in a 0-0 draw. The 24-year-old Belgian, a fan favorite and key player last season with five goals and 11 assists, was not only dropped from the starting XI but was reportedly “banished” from Ibrox, training separately in the lead-up to the match. Manager Russell Martin’s decision, backed by senior players, has drawn fierce criticism from fans and pundits alike.
Raskin, despite his absence, took to Instagram to post a message of support for his teammates, writing, “Come on the team 💪💙.” However, this seemingly innocent gesture was overshadowed by speculation about his future, with the transfer window closing the following day. Reports suggest interest from clubs like Crystal Palace, Wolves, and Real Betis, fueled by Raskin’s father, Thierry, publicly criticizing Martin’s management after his son’s earlier omission against Club Brugge. Fans interpreted Raskin’s social media post as a subtle jab at Martin, intensifying their frustration.
Supporters voiced their discontent on X, with some labeling Martin a “fraud” and others calling the situation “an absolute joke.” One fan wrote, “Can’t say I’ve ever hated anyone as much as I hate Russell Martin. He’s ruining this club, Raskin is 20x the player Rothwell is.” Another accused Martin of lying about Raskin’s availability during pre-match press conferences, where he remained evasive, stating, “It’s not personal… every decision I make is for the team.”
Martin’s tenure at Rangers has been turbulent, with only three wins in 11 games and a humiliating 9-1 aggregate loss to Club Brugge in Champions League qualifying. The goalless draw against Celtic, while a slight reprieve, did little to quell the unrest, as fans chanted Raskin’s name during the match. Pundit Kris Boyd highlighted similar issues from Raskin’s time at Standard Liege, suggesting his “ill-disciplined” nature may have led to his exile.
With Raskin’s future uncertain and Martin under pressure, this saga has exposed deep divisions at Ibrox. As the transfer window closes, Rangers fans await clarity on whether their star midfielder will stay or go, while Martin’s job hangs in the balance.
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