Leon Balogun has officially announced his departure from Rangers, bringing the curtain down on a memorable two-stint spell at Ibrox. The 36-year-old centre-half took to social media to share his disappointment at not being given the chance to say a proper goodbye to the fans — a moment he clearly valued deeply.
Balogun’s contract runs until the end of May, but he revealed with some surprise that it won’t be extended. Despite that, he departs with his head held high after making 30 appearances this season — 21 of them starts — including the final four matches under interim boss Barry Ferguson.
Reflecting on his exit, Balogun said:
If I had known that the last two games of the season were my last, I would have made sure to say goodbye to you all accordingly.
That line will hit home with many supporters. A player who wore his heart on his sleeve, Balogun made it clear that the bond he built with the Rangers support meant a lot — and he leaves wishing he could’ve returned the love one final time inside Ibrox.
A Story of Two Spells
Balogun originally joined Rangers in 2020 from Wigan Athletic, forming a key part of the side that went unbeaten en route to title number 55 under Steven Gerrard. He left for QPR in 2022, a move that at the time looked like a misjudgement by then-manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst, who arguably could have used his experience and steel.
Credit where it’s due — in one of the rare things Michael Beale got right, he brought Balogun back to Ibrox in 2023. Meant initially as a squad player, the Nigeria international became a mainstay in the side when Robin Propper fell out of favour, ending his Rangers journey with 114 appearances in total.
A Class Act On and Off the Pitch
Balogun was more than just a defender. He was a presence. Honest, articulate, and never afraid to speak truthfully about team performances — his post-match reflections were often as memorable as his crunching tackles and last-ditch blocks.
While injuries have started to catch up with him, and at 36 it’s probably the right time to move on, there’s a real sense of sadness surrounding his exit. Not just because of what he brought on the pitch — but because of how it’s ended. The fact he wasn’t given the opportunity to walk round Ibrox and say his goodbyes properly feels like a misstep from the club. Players who give their all should be allowed their moment.
What Next?
We hope this isn’t the last we see of Leon Balogun at Ibrox. Whether in the stands as a fan, or one day in a coaching or ambassadorial role, he’s someone who got what it means to be a Ranger.
Plenty of fans — ourselves included — can’t help but wish Balogun had joined the club earlier in his career. He could’ve easily become a long-term fan favourite had the stars aligned sooner.
He leaves with our respect and thanks. An honourable player. A tough centre-half. A proper Ranger.
All the best, Leon — once a Ger, always a Ger.
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