Raskin starts after Rangers reject bid, Celtic arrivals on bench LIVE!

Reports of Rangers’ late attempt to sign a key Celtic midfielder have been dismissed, with the Ibrox side facing Falkirk in the Scottish Premiership this evening, live on Sky Sports, while Celtic host Aberdeen in a parallel fixture. The speculation—circulated in the hours before kick-off—has cast a shadow over Rangers’ preparations, though the club has not confirmed the nature or timing of any bid. What is clear is that midfielder Reo Hatate has been named in their starting XI against Falkirk, while Simon Raskin remains at Celtic and is included in their matchday squad for the Aberdeen game.

Rangers’ bid falls short, Raskin remains at Celtic

Rangers have confirmed that Hatate will start against Falkirk, a decision that underscores the club’s confidence in their existing options despite reports of interest in a Celtic player. The speculation linking Celtic’s Belgian midfielder Raskin to Rangers circulated widely on deadline day, but the Ibrox club have moved forward without the reinforcement they had been linked with. The absence of a completed deal leaves Rangers to navigate a crucial early-season fixture with the squad they have, rather than the one they sought.

The collapse of the reported bid—allegedly tabled late in the transfer window—highlights the ongoing competition between the Old Firm clubs for midfield control. With Raskin still at Celtic and now available from the bench, Rangers must rely on their current personnel against Falkirk. The decision to name Hatate in the starting line-up suggests a preference for experience, but the lack of a targeted reinforcement may yet test their resolve, particularly against a Falkirk side that has shown resilience in pre-season.

Celtic’s bench bristles with new faces as Aberdeen await

Celtic, meanwhile, have reinforced their squad with fresh arrivals who are now eligible to feature against Aberdeen. The Hoops have added several players to their matchday group, with three of the new signings named on the bench for tonight’s fixture. The inclusion of these recruits underscores Celtic’s proactive approach to squad building, even as they prepare to face a competitive Aberdeen side that has lost just once in their last five meetings with the champions.

The contrast between the two clubs’ transfer activity is stark. While Rangers’ reported pursuit fell short, Celtic have quietly assembled a group capable of rotating effectively from the start. The presence of multiple new faces on the bench suggests depth and options, a luxury that may prove decisive in a tight title race. Aberdeen, always a stubborn opponent, will be watching closely to exploit any gaps left by Rangers’ unsettled midfield.

Tactical outlook: midfield battle and squad rotation

The absence of a completed deal leaves Rangers with a midfield puzzle. Hatate’s inclusion hints at a preference for experience, but the lack of a specialist defensive pivot or creative outlet could expose them against Falkirk’s direct approach. Celtic, by contrast, have the flexibility to rotate, with fresh legs available to exploit spaces in midfield and attack. The Hoops’ ability to manage minutes and maintain intensity will be crucial against a side that has shown they can frustrate better-resourced opponents.

For Rangers, tonight’s match is a test of resilience. Falkirk, though newly promoted, have shown resilience in pre-season and will relish the chance to unsettle an unsettled Rangers side. Celtic, meanwhile, can use Aberdeen as a gauge of their squad’s cohesion, with the bench players ready to inject fresh energy if needed. The tactical chessboard has been set, and the opening moves will reveal much about both clubs’ readiness for the season ahead.

The Old Firm rivalry is more than just points and pride—it’s about momentum. Rangers’ failure to land their reported target may cost them dearly, while Celtic’s squad depth could be the difference between a slow start and a statement of intent. One thing is certain: the next 90 minutes will shape the narrative far beyond tonight’s results.