Credit: Imago

Kyrenia Shipillis

Thu 8 May 2025 16:55, UK

Michael Essien is the proud new owner of a Rangers shirt as the end of an inconsistent season draws near.

Rangers have failed to win any of their second-phase confrontations yet, including a 1-1 draw against bitter rivals Celtic on Sunday.

Barry Ferguson has had a mixed bag of results since taking over as interim manager, but his inconsistency could likely see him exit at the end of the season.

However, despite the disappointing season, Rangers still seem to be held in high esteem after Essien proudly showed off his newest acquisition.

Essien gifted Rangers shirt

The former Chelsea and Real Madrid midfielder took to social media to show off his new Rangers shirt to his 1.7million followers.

The shirt was gifted by Mohamed Diomande, with his name plastered across the back, and he also received a PSV shirt from Adamo Nagalo.

Taking to Instagram, Essien said: “What a lovely gift from my boys.

“Thank you guys, I love it.”

Diomande key for Rangers this season

The Ivorian star learned a lot from Essien when he was an assistant coach at Nordsjælland and has been a key player at Ibrox this season despite their overall inconsistency.

The midfielder has been a stand-out player in the Premiership and Europa League, with 14 goal contributions across the Gers’ entire 2024/25 campaign.

However, with the 49ers Enterprises’ takeover almost complete, Diomande could become one of their casualties once they take over.

Diomande is one of several players whose transfer fee is still being paid off by the Scottish club, and FFP restrictions could see them strapped in the upcoming summer window.

The 23-year-old has already been garnering interest from Spanish and Italian clubs, and the Gers could look to profit in light of their potential FFP woes.

Whether Diomande will continue at Ibrox next season or begin a new adventure elsewhere, no one can deny the impact he has made for Rangers thus far.