And then there was one. Ianis Hagi might not have been at Rangers last season, but he remains the only player at the European Championships representing the club.
The 25-year old playmaker’s future at Ibrox is uncertain and he spoke before the tournament about wanting his agents to find a resolution not knowing if Philippe Clement has plans for him in his squad.
What won’t do his chances any harm was his performance in Romania’s final group game against Slovakia where he played a key role in his country’s progress to the last 16.
Rangers star Ianis Hagi shines as Romania make Euros last 16
Operating on the right-hand side of the attack, Hagi was playing a role that earned the Rangers young player of the season award during his first full season at the club.
The season Rangers last won the league.
Not only did he chip in with goals but he contributed with assists too and produced the sort of numbers that a forward in the red, white and blue should.
In 2020/21 – when he won young player of the year – he started 36 games and ended the campaign with 23 goal contributions.
He didn’t start either or Romania’s first two group games, however, he did enough to impress former international Adrian Iencsi, especially against Belgium, as told to GSP:
“With Belgium, Ianis Hagi was one of the few players who had notable achievements: he made the difference, entered combinations, was a dangerous player, even if on the left side is an uncomfortable position for him.
“He is the player who entered very well and I expect him to enter the first ‘11’.”
With both sides only needing a draw to progress to the knockout stages, it was a surprise to see Slovakia and Romania go toe-to-toe in the first half.
Hagi in particular seemed intent on making the most of his chance, winning a penalty after turning his marker on the edge of the penalty area.
He also impressed the BBC commentary team and pundits.
Vicki Sparks on the mic was backed up by her colleague Dion Dublin when she said that “Ianis Hagi had been the stand out player”.
The former Aston Villa striker went even further when the mercurial talent was taken off, saying:
“I think he’s skillful, I think he’s determined, I think he’s got a really good head on his shoulders.
“I believe he’s done his bit tonight.
“I possibly wouldn’t have taken him off because he’s got that little bit of magic that can turn a game.”
Danny Murphy in the BBC studio agreed saying that “Hagi was definitely an influence.”
Hagi performance is only good news for Rangers
In the second half, Hagi had a couple of productive carries, tormenting his marker in the process.
Another highlight being a nutmeg that created the space for a shot that nearly saw a second goal for Romania.
Hagi departed in the 65 minute for Denis Man who started the previous two games on the wing as the Romanian’s looked to stay on the front foot.
It was the sort of performance that will have caught the eye though.
Not just for potential suitors but Philippe Clement too.
Rangers need better quality players in wide areas and Hagi is an upgrade on every option that the Gers boss currently has.
The question would be, if a bid is made, could Rangers replace him with someone better on a budget?
On that showing, the answer would no.
