It’s fair to say that this one splits opinion. Was Antonio Colak good enough for Rangers? Of course he was!
He scored 14 SPFL goals in 18 starts (25 total appearances) averaging a goal every 102 minutes. These are excellent numbers. Colak had a run of games where he scored 8 goals in 5 SPFL games.
Unfortunately injury and Michael Beale seemingly preferring Morelos meant he didn’t get as much game time the second half of the season. His departure is less about his ability as a striker but more a reflection on how he fits into Beale’s system.
The manager seems to be seeking more mobile strikers. Colak’s work ethic can’t be questioned but he isn’t blessed with pace or ability on the ball.
His £2.5m transfer to Serie B side Parma could’ve been in both parties best interests.
The Manager on Antonio Colak
Michael Beale had this to say on the 29-year-old Croatian’s departure;
Antonio can be really proud of his time here at Rangers. He scored goals and made a good contribution on the pitch but also as a man and professional, he was someone that I enjoyed working with and who built strong relationships with his team mates and staff off the pitch.
We initially had a conversation at the end of last season, where we discussed football, his family and also what the future would look like in terms of the team. Antonio was very honest on his side and we have been working with him and his agent in the following weeks to find a solution that suits all parties. I am pleased for him to have this excellent opportunity in Italy.
He took the time to speak to all the staff and squad in Germany to say goodbye and thank you. This moment typified Antonio’s class as a man. Everyone at Rangers would like to wish him and his family huge success moving forwards and he will always have a warm welcome at Ibrox.
Michael Beale via the Rangers official website
By the sounds of things it’s a very amicable departure. It seems both agreed that with the direction the club is going in, his future would be elsewhere.
Antonio Colak seems like a model professional and a gentlemen and is sure to be missed around the club.
Antonio Colak on Rangers
The Croat shared his emotional goodbye via his Instagram account;
It’s very clear he loved his time at the club and he had love from the fans too. Many will be disappointed to see ‘Tony goals’ leave but after Michael Beale’s comments, maybe the move is best for both parties.
Undoubtedly, he leaves with the well wish from all the fans and the club will be thankful for the £2.5m fee received from Parma.
Conclusion
I think there’s a bit of risk in this one. Sure this deal seems to be making way for a move for Danilo, which is exciting.
On the other hand, Rangers are now relying on a squad of attackers with no SPFL experience. Lammers, Sima and Dessers have never played in the SPFL. The same will be true for Danilo if he joins.
Evidently, one thing Antonio Colak guaranteed was goals, hence the nickname! I do understand the move from a business perspective though. £2.5m for a striker who’s turning 30 this year is good business. Especially when you consider Rangers paid £1.8m a year ago.
Undeniably, he’s a character that will definitely be missed around the club. At this point, I just hope that Rangers don’t miss his goals too much. How do you feel about this one? Would you have kept Antonio Colak this summer? Or will you be happy if Danilo replaces him?