According to reports in Romania (via The Daily Record), Glasgow Rangers will prevent Ianis Hagi from representing his country at the Olympic Games in Tokyo later this year.
The Lowdown: Olympics loom
Despite a state of emergency being extended in Japan due to the pandemic (The Japan Times), the Olympics are set to go ahead as planned in the capital. With Romania having qualified for the football tournament at the event, Hagi could have been in line to travel.
From a Gers point of view, that could be an issue as the third Champions League qualifying and play-off rounds will take place at the same time.
The Latest: Gers to stop Hagi from playing
This latest update suggested the Gers have made a decision in regards to the 22-year-old.
It says Rangers will prevent Hagi from joining up with the squad as a recent FIFA directive allows to them to do just that.
The Verdict: Dilemma
From Hagi’s perspective, this could come as a huge blow. Given his criticism of Romania manager Mirel Radoi last year following the Tricolorii’s defeat against Norway (Digisport), it is clear he is passionate about his country. Hagi’s thoughts on participation at the Olympics are not clear, but it would not be a surprise if he were eager to make the trip.
On the other hand, if Rangers are unwilling to let him depart, it shows Steven Gerrard believes he has a big role to play at the start of next season.
The 55-time Scottish champions will have to get through two rounds if they want to reach the promised land of the Champions League group stages, and the former Genk man’s 14 assists across all competitions this season (Transfermarkt) illustrate his creative ability. By the looks of it, Hagi could have an important role to play.
In other news, Rangers fans are livid at this journalist’s comments.