Djeidi Gassama won’t start for Rangers against Panathinaikos because he’s “not ready”, according to recent reports. This decision likely stems from Gassama’s recent arrival at the club, having signed from Sheffield Wednesday. Given his background in the lower leagues, specifically League One and the Championship, it’s understandable that Rangers manager Russell Martin might want to ease him into the team’s Champions League qualifiers ¹.

Factors Influencing Gassama’s Starting Position

– Lack of Experience: Gassama’s experience playing in top-level European competitions is limited, which might make Martin cautious about throwing him into the deep end against a tough opponent like Panathinaikos.
– Team Preparation: Rangers are still fine-tuning their squad ahead of the qualifiers, with Martin prioritizing players who have been part of the team’s pre-season training camp. Gassama might need more time to gel with the team and adapt to their playing style.
– Competition for Places: Rangers have a talented squad, and competition for starting positions is fierce. Other players might have established themselves in Martin’s plans, making it challenging for Gassama to break into the starting lineup immediately.

Implications for Gassama’s Future

While not starting against Panathinaikos might be a setback for Gassama, it’s not necessarily a negative reflection on his abilities. It could be an opportunity for him to learn from the sidelines, absorb the atmosphere, and prepare himself for future games. With the right mindset and hard work, Gassama could still become a vital part of Rangers’ success ².