The Belgian midfielder who rewrote the record books for a new century
In short: In February 2018, a 16-year-old talent stepped onto the pitch and achieved something unprecedented. By making his professional debut in the Belgian Pro League, Nicolas Raskin became the very first player born in the 21st century to compete in the league.
Nicolas Raskin’s ascent through the ranks of Belgian football is a study in consistent progression. Born in Liège, the son of former professional footballer Thierry Raskin, his path began at Royal Stade Waremmien FC before he entered the prestigious youth academies of Standard Liège and Anderlecht. After a stint with Anderlecht, he moved to Gent in May 2017, where he would eventually make his professional breakthrough.
His debut for Gent against Sint-Truiden in February 2018 was more than just a personal milestone; it was a historical marker for the sport, signaling the arrival of the first 21st-century-born player in the Belgian Pro League. Following this, Raskin returned to Standard Liège in January 2019, a club where he had previously trained as a youth.
Raskin's international pedigree is equally significant. He has amassed over 50 caps for Belgium's youth national teams, representing the nation across every level from under-15 to under-21. His summer of 2023 was particularly notable, as he scored both goals in a 2–0 victory over Israel and was selected for the UEFA European Under-21 Championship squad.
The transition to the senior stage arrived in early 2025. After his first senior call-up on 14 March 2025, Raskin made his international debut on 20 March 2025, appearing as a substitute against Ukraine in a UEFA Nations League relegation play-off. His rapid rise has since seen him integrated into the Belgian squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while his club career saw a move to the Scottish Premiership with Rangers in January 2023 for a reported fee of £1.5 million plus bonuses.
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