Super Eagles defender Leon Balogun has penned a moving farewell to Rangers supporters after confirming that he is set to depart the Glasgow based club this summer following the expiration of his contract, Footynaija.com reports.
Balogun will close his chapter as a Rangers player for good this summer after enjoying two different stints at the club, amassing 114 appearances, making six goals contributions (3 goals and assists a piece) and winning one Scottish Cup, Premiership and League Cup each.
Despite these contributions, the aging defender saw his involvement reduced drastically this season, mainly because of the nagging injuries that left him struggling for match fitness for most of the campaign.
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Balogun’s contract expires next month and despite the 36-year-old openly expressing his desire to continue at Ibrox, it appears the club have opted against a renewal. As a result, the 36-year-old defender will be playing elsewhere next season.
Leon Balogun pens emotional farewell to Rangers faithful
“It’s that time again. No caption could summarise all that is going through my mind as I’m writing these lines,” Balogun wrote in a social media post via X.
“It’s been nothing short of an honour, a pleasure and a great, great privilege to represent this massive club – twice! So many memories, good ones as well as a few tough ones, but it’s the latter especially that made my love for the club grow even stronger.
“The moments when we all stuck together and went again – no matter the disappointment or frustration. In these moments the club revealed what makes it most special: YOU.
“The people supporting us week in week out, near and far, demanding, expecting, pushing us to do better and go for glory.
“The people working for the club behind the scenes, meeting us with a smile everyday, doing their absolute best to contribute to the success of the club in their own way. You’re the heartbeat of the club and it’s been an honour to represent you!
“If I would have known that the last 2 games of the season were my last for the club I would have made sure to say goodbye to all of you accordingly.
“Unfortunately I wasn’t afforded that opportunity which saddens me as I would have liked to have walked round Ibrox one last time and returned all the love and support you’ve given me during my 2 stints.
“I don’t know when I’ll be back, but I promise I won’t be a stranger. Thank you for making me feel at home and appreciated wherever we met.
“You’ve become more than just my club, you’ve become family, and for that I will be forever grateful.”
What next?
36 years old Balogun had, earlier this year, registered his desire to keep playing ahead of next season. However, whether there will be a change in his stance after this latest development with Rangers remains to be seen.
The Nigeria international will be available for free this summer transfer window and following some of his impressive performances for Rangers this season when fit, there will definitely be clubs interested in his services.
