Cyriel Dessers has officially left Rangers and signed for Panathinaikos in Greece, bringing his time in Scotland to an end after two seasons.
The 30-year-old Nigerian striker was Rangers’ top goal scorer last season, but he has now moved on in a deal believed to be worth around £4.5 million – with Rangers reportedly recouping most of the money they paid for him.
A Mixed Time at Ibrox
Despite scoring 52 goals in 116 matches for the club, Dessers never fully won over the Rangers fanbase. While some praised his work rate and goals, many supporters focused more on the chances he missed, and he often became a target for criticism.
He even received public support from his former manager Philippe Clement and team-mates Leon Balogun and Kemar Roofe, who defended him from what they called unfair abuse.
Still, Dessers always spoke positively about the fans and kept his focus on playing, refusing to be drawn into the negativity.
Farewell Message and Club Statement
In a farewell post, Rangers said on social media:
“We can today confirm the departure of Cyriel Dessers to Panathinaikos for an undisclosed fee. Everyone at the club thanks Cyriel for his contribution during his time in Glasgow, and we wish him well for the future.”
Dessers was seen waving to fans after a goalless draw against Celtic, which turned out to be his last match for Rangers, as confirmed by new manager Russell Martin.
Rangers Looking Ahead
With Dessers now gone and fellow striker Hamza Igamane also leaving for Lille, Russell Martin is reshaping the squad.
Rangers have already signed:
Bojan Miovski (former Aberdeen striker) from Girona
Youssef Chermiti from Everton in a deal worth £8 million
A Fresh Start in Greece
Dessers now begins a new chapter in his career with Panathinaikos, where he’ll be hoping for a fresh start and less off-pitch pressure. He leaves behind a mixed legacy at Rangers—one of goals, effort, and divided opinion.
SportsRation
