(Credit: Manh Tung - Breaking Media Ltd)

Daniel Davis

Thu 26 March 2026 18:10, UK

Ryan Naderi has a very big decision to make over his international future – and Rangers will be anxiously waiting for his choice after his difficult start to life at Ibrox.

The 22-year-old striker has taken time to find his feet after completing his move to Glasgow from Hansa Rostock in a deal worth just shy of £5million back in February.

There remain substantial question marks over whether he will be able to adapt to the Scottish Premiership, but, at least for now, the Light Blues are sticking by him.

Naderi has scored just two goals for the club, both of which came in the 8-0 thrashing of Queen’s Park in the Scottish Cup, and his top-flight drought stands at seven games.

Rangers will hope that the transfer eventually pays off, with no end in sight to his slow start. However, his looming dilemma on the international stage could actually benefit them.

Ryan Naderi must make quick international decision

Naderi is eligible to play for Germany, Bulgaria or the Czech Republic and has not yet decided who he wishes to represent. He was born in Germany but holds Czech citizenship.

At present, the strongest interest is from the Bulgarian camp.

Indeed, head coach Alexander Dimitrov recently revealed he has held direct talks with the frontman and has urged him to make up his mind sooner rather than later.

“The decision he has to make about whether to play for the national team of Bulgaria or any other country is not easy and is final,” said Dimitrov.

“Even if he records one minute for any senior team, he cannot change his mind after that.

“So he wants time to think. But I hope he makes his decision as quickly as possible because Ryan has many qualities, he has potential and can help our national team.”

Naderi is in desperate need of a confidence boost, and regular minutes away from the Ibrox spotlight would allow him to get back into his groove, which would greatly benefit Rangers.

On the other hand, selecting a country that would then not use him would be a brutal blow for the youngster, especially at such a crucial stage of his blossoming career.

Rangers must get Naderi firing

Danny Rohl has got it all wrong with Naderi at Rangers, because he has often found himself away from the areas in which he thrived at Hansa Rostock. A timely fix will be crucial.

The Bears are within touching distance of the top of the Premiership and cannot afford to falter now. That means that every player, including those shorn of confidence, must step up.

Naderi showed more than enough in Germany to prove he can be an Ibrox hit, but the club must first find a way to get him into central areas, where he has often caused havoc.

Only then will he be able to find rhythm and, eventually, goals.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Govan.