Thomas Buffel played football for Rangers for three years. The former attacker has fond memories of his time in Scotland. “It’s a very special club, with a lot of supporters. Ibrox was always full with 50,000 fans. It was always a great feeling to play there for all those enthusiastic fans,” says Buffel.
“Rangers is a club with a very rich history. Many good football players have passed by. They are proud of all their titles and they radiate that. From day one you notice that you have to go along with that story. The appearance of the club hold them in high esteem.”
On the field, the fans expect total surrender from the players. “That mentality is very important. If you always go to the extreme, you will be admired by the fans. In addition, Rangers is a club that tries to play football well tactically and technically.”
With Kemar Roofe, Rabbi Matondo, Fashion Sakala and Ianis Hagi, the current Rangers has a lot of players with a past in the Jupiler Pro League. “Those are all players who have done well in our competition,” says Buffel. “Union is hereby warned.”
Goaltje thief Morelos has been in the rags for a while. “Without him, they would have played something different. They are now looking for a little more depth with fast guys on the flanks such as Matondo and Sakala. Union will have to find a solution for that.”
Buffalo does not think Union has a chance. “They showed last season that they can present themselves very well. Union has made it very difficult for Club Brugge. Karel Geraerts has not changed too much either. He cleverly builds on what was already there last season.”
Buffel Union also gives opportunities in the second leg. “It is difficult for many clubs to play football at Ibrox, but Union is a real transition team. If Rangers pulls forward, Union may be able to benefit from that.”
Source: Sporza
