- Djeidi Gassama makes Mauritania debut in 2-1 defeat to Argentina, calling it “an immense pride.”
- Winger returns to Rangers ahead of crucial Premiership title run under Danny Rohl.
- Rangers can go top with win over Dundee United amid tight title race.
Djeidi Gassama has returned to Rangers with renewed belief after making his Mauritania debut in a 2-1 defeat to Argentina.
He enjoyed the experience that he admits gives him “an immense pride” as attention quickly shifts back to the Premiership title race.
Djeidi Gassama vs Lionel Messi
“It means a lot to me,” Gassama said.
“It’s an immense pride to represent my country, to play for the colours of my country.”
The journey to Argentina
His journey to this point has been anything but conventional.
Born in Nieleba Haouisse in Maurutania, he recalled his early beginnings before moving to France as a child.
“I started playing football in my neighbourhood in Mauritania, in the sand,” he explained.
“From the age of 12, football really started for me.”
That grounding remains central to his identity as a player.
“I’m a player who hits, dribbles. I have fun on the pitch,” he said, outlining the attacking qualities that Rangers supporters have seen intermittent flashes this season.
“I’m here to strengthen the team. I’m here to add my game.”
Gassama also spoke positively about his integration within the Mauritania setup, highlighting the collective spirit in the squad.
“Honestly, I’ve been welcomed by everyone. The staff, the players, everyone,” he said.
“It’s great, the atmosphere is great, we work well together.”
He added: “It’s a group with young people, key people and old timers. I talk to everyone.
“Honestly, it’s good, I can only say it’s good.”
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Head coach Danny Rohl has already framed the title run in stark terms, describing the remaining matches as “seven cup finals”.
The visitors arrive at Ibrox with confidence, with Goodwin insisting there will be “no fear” from his side.
The stakes are clear. Rangers last reached the summit in March 2024 following a 3-1 win over Hibernian.
Now, with Celtic sitting third and both the Hoops and leaders Hearts not in action until tomorrow, the opportunity is there to seize control.
For Gassama, the timing of his international breakthrough could prove significant.
“I hope to do good things and great things with the Mauritanian squad,” he said.
If he can translate that ambition back to club level, Rangers may yet benefit from a player returning more experienced and ready for the pressure of a title race.
