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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Mark Walker

Ianis Hagi backed to return to Rangers as 'twice the player' after Alaves loan

Gheorghe Hagi predicts son Ianis will return to Rangers in a year's time as twice the player he is now, after joining La Liga side Alaves on loan.

The Romanian forward has opted to leave Ibrox for a season after he found his first team opportunities were limited under Michael Beale.

Hagi junior insisted he will return to Rangers 'some day' stating a message to the fans that it definitely wasn't a goodbye from him.

And his famous father Gheorghe reckons he will vastly improve after a season playing in Spain.

The former Real Madrid and Barcelona icon said: "I agree with Ianis' decision.

"It's his decision, I knew about the move. Ianis wanted to get to Spain. It's a very good league which will help him progress, help him be better.

"He is a kid who wants to learn, to progress, he is a professional. From my point of view, I am delighted he will be wearing the No.10 jersey like me!

"Spain is a fantastic league, there is a very good playing technique.

"In my opinion, in a year's time, he will be twice as good.

"I hope he manages to achieve his goals at Alaves."

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