As the 2025-26 Scottish Premiership season enters its decisive phase, Rangers supporters have been handed a major boost with positive news surrounding midfielder Mohamed Diomande.
The energetic Ivorian has been making strong progress in his recovery after suffering a shoulder injury during the Old Firm clash in March, with manager Danny Rohl confirming that the player has now returned to first-team training.
With the title race reaching a critical stage, Diomande’s return comes at a perfect time for a Rangers squad that has been tested by injuries throughout the campaign.
Injury Blow During Old Firm Clash Raised Early Fears
The setback occurred on 17 March 2026 during Rangers’ Scottish Cup defeat to Celtic, when Diomande went down after landing awkwardly on his shoulder.
Initial fears suggested a serious dislocation that could require surgery and potentially end his season prematurely.
Early speculation raised concerns that the midfielder could miss the remainder of the campaign, a huge blow in a tightly contested title race.
He was subsequently ruled out of the following league match against St Mirren, adding to Rangers’ midfield problems.
With Connor Barron also sidelined, Rangers were forced to rely heavily on Nicolas Raskin and Tochi Chukwuani in central areas.
Before the injury, Diomande had been an important presence in midfield, offering energy, pressing ability, and tactical flexibility across multiple roles.
Positive Recovery and Return to Training
Fortunately, medical scans confirmed that surgery would not be required, easing early fears over a long-term absence.
The midfielder responded well to treatment and began an accelerated rehabilitation programme with the club’s medical staff.
Within weeks, he was back on the pitch at the Rangers Training Centre, gradually reintegrating into full training sessions.
Danny Rohl confirmed that Diomande had returned to group training and would be assessed ahead of upcoming fixtures.
Since then, his recovery has continued without setbacks, with the player now closing in on full match fitness.
A phased return is expected, with careful management to ensure he avoids any risk of re-injury.
Why Diomande Is Important to Rangers
Signed in 2024 for around £4.5 million, Mohamed Diomande has developed into a key squad option at Ibrox.
At 24 years old, he brings a combination of physical strength, technical quality, and tactical versatility.
During the 2025-26 season, he has made around 40 appearances in all competitions, contributing goals, assists, and consistent performances in midfield.
His ability to operate both defensively and offensively makes him a valuable tactical option for the manager.
He is also known for his high work rate and pressing intensity, helping Rangers regain possession in key areas of the pitch.
When fully fit, he provides strong competition in midfield and adds depth to the squad during a demanding fixture schedule.
Title Race Impact
Rangers remain firmly involved in a tight Premiership title race heading into the final stretch of the season.
With injuries affecting squad depth throughout the campaign, Diomande’s return is a timely boost.
His availability adds flexibility in midfield and allows for rotation during a busy run of fixtures.
Supporters have welcomed the news, viewing him as an important player for the decisive stage of the season.
Gradual Return Expected
Rangers are expected to manage his return carefully, likely introducing him gradually from the bench before restoring full match minutes.
The aim is to ensure he regains sharpness while avoiding any setback to his shoulder injury.
A strong end to the season could further establish Diomande as a key figure in the squad moving forward.
As the final fixtures approach, his return could play a significant role in Rangers’ push for success.
What do you think? Should Rangers start Diomande immediately or ease him back into action? Share your thoughts below.
Let’s Go Rangers!
