Borussia Dortmund want Emmanuel Fernandez: 2 reasons he will stay at Rangers

Borussia Dortmund’s long-standing interest in Emmanuel Fernandez has once again resurfaced, as the Bundesliga giants remain admirers of the Rangers defender, Afrik Foot reports.

The Nigerian centre-back has emerged as one of the most sought-after defenders in British football following a sensational debut season at Ibrox.

Fernandez made 33 appearances across all competitions last season, scored six goals, won Rangers’ Player of the Year award and earned his maiden Super Eagles call-up.

At 24, the former Peterborough United defender appears destined for one of Europe’s elite leagues, and Borussia Dortmund believe he has the attributes to thrive in the Bundesliga.

Emmanuel Fernandez. Copyright: xFotoxOlimpikx IMAGO

However, despite the admiration from Signal Iduna Park, there are growing indications that Fernandez may remain in Scotland for at least another season.

Two reasons Emmanuel Fernandez will stay at Rangers

1. Derek McInnes sees him as the cornerstone of his project

One of the biggest reasons Fernandez could reject a move this summer is his growing importance under new Rangers manager Derek McInnes.

The Nigerian recently revealed that he has already held extensive talks with the former Aberdeen boss, who has outlined a clear development plan centred around improving his defensive awareness and helping him become a more complete centre-back.

“We’ve had good talks so far and he showed me things that I need to improve on,” Fernandez admitted in quotes relayed by the Scottish Sun.

Emmanuel Fernandez of Rangers. Copyright: ImagoxAlexxToddx

Unlike many clubs where Fernandez would initially need to adapt and compete for minutes, Rangers are offering him something much more valuable: responsibility.

McInnes has repeatedly spoken warmly of the defender, calling him “Big Manny” and publicly expressing his delight at having him back in full training.

The signs increasingly point to Fernandez becoming one of the leaders of the new Rangers era.

For a player still refining certain aspects of his game, another season as an undisputed starter in Scotland, with European football and major responsibility, may prove more beneficial than becoming part of Dortmund’s rotation.

Niko KOVAC with Karim ADEYEMI Borussia Dortmund. Copyright: Imago

2. Dortmund cannot currently guarantee him a starting role

While Borussia Dortmund remain interested, the German side’s defensive situation remains crowded.

The arrival of Joane Gadou has already strengthened their backline, while Waldemar Anton, Emre Can, Filippo Mané and Luca Reggiani are all competing for places.

Earlier reports also indicated that Dortmund would likely need a defensive departure before making any concrete move for Fernandez.

At Rangers, Fernandez is arguably the club’s most important defender and could potentially develop into one of the team’s captains.

Emmanuel Fernandez, Rangers FC. Copyright: Imago

At Dortmund, there is no guarantee he immediately becomes a starter.

For a player hoping to cement his place in Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles squad ahead of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, regular football remains crucial.

Another season of consistent performances in Scotland could further increase his market value and potentially attract even bigger offers next summer.

Fernandez himself appears fully committed to improving under McInnes, admitting that pre-season offers him the perfect opportunity to address weaknesses in his game.

That mindset suggests he is not currently agitating for an exit.

Emmanuel Fernandez of Rangers and Nigeria. Copyright: xJamiexJohnstonx IMAGO

Why staying may be the smartest move

Borussia Dortmund remain an attractive proposition, but timing is everything in football.

Fernandez is still developing, and Rangers are offering him something few clubs can provide: guaranteed minutes, leadership responsibilities and a manager fully invested in his progression.

Unless Dortmund can provide assurances over playing time and submit an offer capable of convincing Rangers to sell, the Nigerian defender may ultimately decide that remaining at Ibrox is the best decision for his career.

Sometimes the smartest transfer move is the one that does not happen, and for Emmanuel Fernandez, another season in Glasgow could prove to be the perfect next step before eventually making the leap to one of Europe’s elite clubs.