When Hamza Igamane arrived at Ibrox from AS FAR Rabat for around £1.8m, many questioned whether Rangers had overpaid for an unproven youngster. Just 14 months later, those doubts have turned into a healthy profit, with the Moroccan striker now completing a £10.5m move to Lille.
Igamane quickly showed why the club had taken a chance on him. He was a player who got fans off their seats, driving at defenders and producing flashes of quality in front of goal. Despite limited minutes, many supporters saw him as Rangers’ best natural striker. Over his time at Ibrox he contributed 16 goals and 3 assists, showing his ability to make an impact even without being a regular starter.
Frustrations on the Pitch
One of the recurring frustrations came when Igamane was shifted wide rather than playing through the middle. His body language often suggested he wasn’t happy in that role. At times, his work rate and pressing out of possession were also questioned – the raw talent was there, but the consistency and application were not always as strong.
Memorable Moments
What can’t be forgotten are the highlights. His goals in Europe – including that strike in the Europa League and his role in Rangers’ famous rout of Nice – will live long in the memory. But above all, the late Old Firm winner at Celtic Park was the defining moment of his Ibrox career. That dramatic strike not only secured victory but also sparked the infamous “skoosh-gate” celebration that had the whole of Scottish football talking.
The Summer Downturn
Unfortunately, the story turned sour this summer. Reports emerged during the break that he had already agreed personal terms with Lille. When he finally returned to training, visa issues delayed him – and when he did show up, he was noticeably overweight and unfit. It took a further four weeks before he was even considered for selection, and while he did make a few substitute appearances recently, the spark was missing.
The Final Straw
Last weekend at Ibrox proved the breaking point. With Rangers trailing St Mirren, Russell Martin turned to Igamane on the hour mark – only for the player to declare he was injured. The manager made it clear afterwards that he wasn’t convinced, and subsequent reports confirmed his doubts. It was the final act in a relationship that had already unravelled. No player is bigger than Rangers, and his attitude since the summer has been seen as letting down his teammates, the supporters, and the club itself.
Business Done
Disappointing as the ending is, this still represents a strong piece of business by Rangers. To turn a £1.8m prospect into a £10.5m sale in just over a year is a significant return. The chapter closes with mixed feelings – the memories of his brilliance on the pitch set against the frustrations off it – but ultimately, the club banks a major profit and moves forward.
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