Robin Pröpper has admitted that adapting to Scottish football has been a steep learning curve, acknowledging his struggle to secure a consistent starting spot at Rangers. The Dutch defender, who joined the Glasgow club from FC Twente in the summer, spoke candidly about his experience in an interview with Dutch outlet Voetbal Primeur.
Despite being hailed as a significant signing upon his arrival, the 31-year-old has faced criticism for some underwhelming performances. Pröpper was left out of the starting lineup by manager Philippe Clement for key league matches against Aberdeen and Hearts but returned for the recent game against Dundee United, where his display failed to convince.
Reflecting on his adjustment to the Scottish Premiership, Pröpper admitted the differences between the league and the Dutch Eredivisie have been stark. “I’m enjoying myself here, but certainly in the league, I’m not playing every game,” he said. “There is room for improvement. Stylistically, the Scottish Premiership and the Dutch Eredivisie could hardly be more different, and the tendency for direct football has taken a bit of getting used to.”
The defender explained how the fast-paced, results-driven approach in Scotland contrasts with the tactical emphasis of Dutch football. “In the Eredivisie, a lot focuses on tactical and footballing ability. Everyone wants to build up. Here the focus is more on results. You play against opponents who give a long ball from the goalkeeper. Many Scottish teams want to go forward as quickly as possible, putting deep balls over the defense,” he noted.
Pröpper also highlighted the cultural differences influencing the game. “You hear it and notice it in the crowd. They want the ball forward, where in the Netherlands, they might rather opt for the ball wide to slow it down. Here, sometimes they lack the patience for that,” he observed.
The shift in playing style has required the Dutchman to adjust his defensive approach. “In the Netherlands, I took a lot of account of the short ball being played to the striker. Then the striker gets into the ball. Here it’s right at your back. So I have to position myself differently and use my physicality differently,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Pröpper remains optimistic about his development at Rangers. “That’s why I came here: to learn something new. My goal is to be an undisputed starter at the end of the year. That’s what I’m going for,” he affirmed.
He also acknowledged the differences in coaching philosophies between Scotland and the Netherlands. “The coach switches a lot; he looks at the opponent. We are not used to that in the Netherlands, and as a player, you still want to play as much as possible,” he added.