Nicolas Raskin has quickly become a fan favorite at Rangers FC, captivating audiences with his dynamic midfield play and unwavering determination. This article delves into the life and career of this talented Belgian footballer, exploring his journey from the youth academies to the hallowed grounds of Ibrox Stadium.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on February 23, 2001, in Liège, Belgium, Nicolas Raskin’s passion for football ignited at a young age. He honed his skills at local club Royal Stade Waremmien FC before joining the prestigious youth academy of Standard Liège. His journey continued with stints at Anderlecht and Gent, where he gained valuable experience and further developed his technical abilities.
In 2018, Raskin made his professional debut for Gent, becoming the first player born in the 21st century to grace the Belgian Pro League. This milestone marked the beginning of a promising career, showcasing his potential to compete at the highest level.
Standard Liège: A Platform for Growth
Raskin’s return to his boyhood club, Standard Liège, in 2019 proved to be a turning point in his career. Over four seasons, he established himself as a key player, making 80 appearances and contributing with both goals and assists. His performances caught the attention of scouts across Europe, and it was only a matter of time before he embarked on a new chapter.
Rangers FC: A New Challenge
In January 2023, Raskin made a high-profile move to Scottish Premiership giants Rangers FC. The transfer fee, reported to be around £1.32 million, underscored the club’s belief in his abilities. Raskin quickly settled into his new surroundings, making his debut just days after signing and becoming an integral part of the team’s midfield.
International Career: Representing Belgium
Raskin’s talent has also been recognized at the international level, representing Belgium at various youth levels. He has earned over 50 caps for his country’s youth teams, showcasing his commitment and passion for national duty. With his continued progress, a call-up to the senior national team seems inevitable.
Playing Style and Strengths
Raskin is a versatile midfielder, capable of playing in various roles across the midfield. He is known for his exceptional passing range, vision, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game. His tireless work rate and commitment to both defensive and offensive duties make him a valuable asset to any team.
Personal Life
Off the pitch, Raskin is a dedicated professional who remains grounded despite his growing fame. He is the son of former footballer Thierry Raskin, who instilled in him the values of hard work and perseverance. Raskin’s family plays a crucial role in his life, providing unwavering support throughout his career.
The Future of Nicolas Raskin
Nicolas Raskin’s career is on an upward trajectory, and he has all the attributes to become a star in the world of football. His performances for Rangers FC have been impressive, and he continues to develop and improve with each game. With his talent, dedication, and unwavering focus, the future looks bright for this young Belgian midfielder.
As he continues to make strides in his career, Nicolas Raskin will undoubtedly attract the attention of top clubs across Europe. However, for now, he remains committed to Rangers FC, where he is determined to achieve success and leave a lasting legacy.
FAQs
What is Nicolas Raskin’s footballing background?
Raskin began his youth career at Royal Stade Waremmien FC before moving to Standard Liège’s youth academy in 2008. He later joined Anderlecht’s youth setup in 2015 and then transferred to Gent in 2017. He made his professional debut with Gent in February 2018, becoming the first player born in the 21st century to play in the Belgian Pro League. In January 2019, he returned to Standard Liège, where he made 80 appearances and scored four goals. In January 2023, Raskin signed with Rangers FC.
How has Nicolas Raskin performed at Rangers FC?
Since joining Rangers in January 2023, Raskin has become an integral part of the team. He made his debut on February 4, 2023, in a 2–1 victory over Ross County. By January 31, 2025, he had accumulated 50 league appearances and scored one goal for the club.
Has Nicolas Raskin represented Belgium internationally?
Yes, Raskin has represented Belgium at various youth levels, including U15, U16, U17, U18, U19, and U21. He was part of the Belgium U17 squad for the 2018 UEFA European Under-17 Championship. In June 2023, he scored both goals in a 2–0 win over Israel for the U21 team and was subsequently named in the squad for the 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship.
What are Nicolas Raskin’s notable achievements?
During his time with Standard Liège, Raskin was a runner-up in the Belgian Cup for the 2020–21 season. With Rangers, he reached the Scottish League Cup final in the 2022–23 season, finishing as a runner-up.
What is known about Nicolas Raskin’s personal life?
Nicolas Raskin was born in Liège, Belgium. He is the son of Thierry Raskin, a former professional footballer in Belgium.
How has Nicolas Raskin contributed to the Rangers’ team dynamics?
Beyond his on-field performances, Raskin has played a pivotal role in helping new teammates acclimate to the club. Notably, he assisted fellow Belgian Cyriel Dessers in settling into life at Ibrox, leveraging their shared background to foster team cohesion.
Were there other clubs interested in signing Nicolas Raskin?
Before his move to Rangers, Raskin attracted interest from several European clubs. In November 2022, reports suggested that FC Barcelona was considering a January move for him. Additionally, Portuguese giants Benfica were linked with a potential transfer approach.
What is Nicolas Raskin’s playing style?
Raskin is primarily a central midfielder known for his technical proficiency, vision, and ability to control the tempo of the game. His versatility allows him to operate both in defensive and advanced midfield roles, contributing to both defensive duties and attacking transitions.
How has Nicolas Raskin’s career progressed over the years?
Starting from youth academies in Belgium, Raskin’s career trajectory has been marked by steady development and increasing responsibility. His early debut in the Belgian Pro League showcased his potential, and subsequent performances solidified his reputation, leading to his move to Rangers, where he continues to develop his skills.
What are Nicolas Raskin’s future prospects?
Given his age and the progress he has made, Raskin is poised for a promising future. His consistent performances at the club level and experience in international youth competitions position him as a potential candidate for Belgium’s senior national team. Continued development and exposure in European competitions with Rangers will further enhance his prospects.
To conclude
Nicolas Raskin’s journey from the youth academies of Belgium to becoming a key player for Rangers FC exemplifies his dedication and talent. His technical abilities, combined with his leadership qualities, have made him a valuable asset both on and off the field. As he continues to develop, Raskin is expected to play a significant role in both his club’s successes and potentially on the international stage with Belgium’s senior team.
To read more , click here
