Ridvan Yilmaz claim emerges for Athletic Bilbao v Rangers
Sky Sports pundit Kris Boyd has issued a verdict on Ridvan Yilmaz ahead of the second leg between Athletic Bilbao and Rangers.
After the first leg ended 0-0 at Ibrox, there is everything to play for in the second leg in Spain.
The La Liga side go into this game as favourites but Gers’ away form has been good and they will back themselves to cause an upset.
Boyd expects Yilmaz at right wing-back against Bilbao
Dujon Sterling suffered an injury in the first leg and he’s set to be out for the long term.
Robin Propper will also be missing this game as he picked up a red card in the first leg.
Boyd, a Sky Sports pundit, told the Sun: “But Propper’s suspension has given Ferguson a headache ahead of the return game in Bilbao.
| Matches | Starts | Minutes | Goals | Goals Conceded | Clean Sheets | Yellow Cards |
| 24 | 20 | 1761′ | 2 | 22 | 8 | 8 |
“With Sterling out, it could open the door for Clinton Nsiala if Rangers stick with a back five.
“Or, more likely, Ridvan Yilmaz could switch to right wing-back, with Jefte in on the left.”
Yilmaz has played a few games at right-back this season when James Tavernier was unavailable.
Rangers risk playing it into Bilbao’s hands by starting Yilmaz out of position
Starting Yilmaz at right-back against Athletic Bilbao would be a gamble due to his defensive vulnerabilities, especially on his unnatural side.
The 24-year-old left-back is more comfortable bombing forward than locking down defensively, where his weaknesses are exposed.
Bilbao’s wingers, like Nico Williams, thrive on exploiting makeshift defenders, and Ridvan’s lack of right-sided instincts could leave gaps, especially against their rapid transitions.
His recent errors, including a costly mispositioning against Celtic, highlight the risk of playing him out of position in a high-pressure Europa League match.
While Rıdvan’s energy and crossing add attacking value, his defensive lapses on the right could invite relentless pressure from Bilbao, jeopardising a risky move for Rangers’ backline stability.