Revealed: How Rangers Managed To Sign Aribo

The Nigerian international joined Rangers from Charlton on a free transfer last year, but he could’ve ended at another club 

Rangers were able to sign Joe Aribo ahead of other clubs interested in the Nigerian because of their manager, Steven Gerrard.

According to The Athletic, Aribo could’ve signed for either Benfica or Eintracht Frankfurt as they were favourites ahead of Rangers.

However, Rangers manager, Steven Gerrard travelled to London personally to convince Aribo that the Ibrox is the right place for him.

Gerrard was a former Liverpool captain and also one of the best midfielders of his generation. He was able to convince Aribo that playing under his guidance will improve him as a player.

The former England international was right as Aribo turned out to be one of Rangers best players in his first season at the club.

He made 48 appearances in all competitions for the Scottish giants last season, scoring nine times and providing eight assists.

Aribo’s performances earned him the club’s Young Player of the Season, while his strike against Braga in the Europa League Round of 32 was voted as goal of the season.

The former Charlton star also made his international debut for Nigeria where he has now become one of the team’s most important players under Gernot Rohr.