Confirmed: Another Rangers player may now need surgery after suffering injury

Rangers defender Leon Balogun suffered a cheekbone injury during their 2-0 defeat to Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.

The Nigerian international began the second leg but was forced off in the second half due to the injury, which prevented him from continuing.

The 36-year-old has been a dependable presence at the back for the Ibrox side this season, providing solid performances in defence.

Balogun issues surgery update post cheekbone injury

Dujon Sterling is already facing months on the sidelines and had to undergo surgery on his injured Achilles.

Now, Balogun has admitted that he may even require surgery after the events that unfolded on Thursday night.

However, unlike Sterling, he hopes that it will not end his season, with five more games left.

“I’ve fractured my cheekbone again, so it’s the fourth time I think in my career,” Balogun told the BBC.

“I knew it straight away and I knew that I had to come off with it.

“I asked the doc if there’s any chance for me to stay on, but then the pain normally kicks in five, 10 minutes after and then it’s not really nice.

“We’ll see how severe, but probably we’ll need a little small surgery or something and then a few days rest and then I can go back on with the mask.”

Rangers have a decision to make on Balogun

Balogun’s recent cheekbone fracture, coupled with his contract expiring in 2025, casts uncertainty over his future at Ibrox.

The Nigerian defender, who has now suffered this injury for the fourth time, faces a potential surgery and a recovery period, which may sideline him for crucial matches in Rangers’ remaining five Scottish Premiership games.

At 36, Balogun’s recurring injuries and age could prompt Rangers to reconsider extending his contract, especially as the club navigate a trophyless season and a pending takeover.

His admission that Gers lacked quality against Bilbao and were outplayed may further fuel concerns about his ability to compete at the highest level consistently.

While Balogun remains optimistic about returning with a protective mask, Gers’ management may view his injury history and the physical demands of the game as risks outweighing his experience and leadership.

No final decision on his contract is expected until the takeover is finalised, as new ownership could bring a shift in strategy, potentially prioritising younger, more durable players to rebuild the squad for future success.

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