Cantwell and Butland react to Dessers’ emotional message amid Rangers exit links
Cyriel Dessers’ emotional news on social media gained the attention of past and present teammates as speculation swirls around his future at Rangers.
The Nigerian international has remained a controversial figure during his two seasons at Ibrox, with fans far more focused on his shortcomings than his 51 goals and 13 assists in 109 appearances.
Having been linked with an exit ever since his arrival from Cremonense two summers ago, Rangers appear to have hit a roadblock with a deal for Dessers, though the new manager could now look to keep him.
Russell Martin has taken the reins from Barry Ferguson, who was already a fan favourite from his time as captain at Ibrox, and the 30-year-old striker thrived under his leadership.
While rumours continue to surround Dessers, he clearly has some important focuses outside his footballing career during the summer months, as he took to social media with a very different message.
Cyriel Dessers celebrates monumental moment away from Rangers
Taking to Instagram with pictures from his wedding (20 June), Dessers wrote: “Can’t imagine life without this one,” to which Jack Butland commented: “Congrats, CD,” while Todd Cantwell liked the post.
Several of his teammates like the message, including James Tavernier, Rabbi Matondo, Dujon Sterling, Oscar Cortes, and even Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina.
Russell Martin appointment begins period of change at Ibrox
Football Insider verdict
The Ibrox faithful have been more than patient with the club over the last few seasons, with fans now seeing drastic changes on and off the pitch ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Martin’s appointment, while initially greeted with disappointment, could turn out to be a solid move from 49ers Enterprises, led by Paraag Marathe and Andrew Cavenagh.
The new manager’s plans are clear to see, with Football Insider understanding that the squad could be built around Nico Raskin and Hamza Igamane despite being linked with big-money exits.
With Tom Lawrence, Ianis Hagi, and Leon Balogun all departing at the end of their contracts, it remains unknown exactly what the plans are for the rest of the squad over the coming weeks.
Igamane continues to be linked with a Premier League move, and if that is the case, selling Dessers without signing at least two replacements could land the Gers in some very troubling waters.
The main ambitions will be catching up to their Old Firm rivals Celtic on the pitch and stringing a run together in Europe, but the Light Blues will need to take things slowly as the era begins.