Romanian midfielder Ianis Hagi has returned to the first team squad of Glasgow Rangers, but recently he recalled his loan spell in Spain, at the Iberian club Deportivo de Alaves Vitoria.
Adapting to Spanish football was much more difficult than he had anticipated, says the 26-year-old midfielder, the son of the legendary Gheorghe Hagi.
He mentions that the overall atmosphere dominating the Basque dressing room played a significant role: "Well, it was definitely different. Starting from the city, country, weather. Everything was different. I enjoyed my time in Spain simply because I greatly appreciate how they think about football and how they train you. But, at the same time, it was quite difficult for me to adapt to the mentality of not winning every match and to the daily mentality, which was certainly tough.
With all due respect, I believe there are different types of people there, different types of football mentalities. At the age of 26, I have learned a lot about myself so far and I know what I like and what environments make me a better person, a better player," said Ianis Hagi to Rangers TV.
Hagi played 26 matches in the shirt of the Spanish team, scoring 2 goals and providing 2 assists, so he cannot boast very good statistics.
Since returning from Rangers' reserve team, Ianis Hagi has played 2 matches, providing an assist and receiving a red card.
Rangers are currently in 3rd place in the Scottish league, with 19 points after 10 rounds.
D.A.