Hibs are on the verge of a historic European moment with the Conference League play-offs against Gent. Meanwhile, star midfielder Josh Mulligan's future is in the spotlight.
The stage is set for Hibs to make a significant leap in their European campaign. With the UEFA Conference League play-offs against Gent looming, the team is poised to create a memorable chapter in their history. Meanwhile, the future of star midfielder Josh Mulligan has become a hot topic, with Serie A side Genoa reportedly eyeing him.
The journey to this pivotal moment has been marked by impressive victories. Hibs have already triumphed over Kosovo’s Malisheva and North Macedonian outfit Shkendija setting the stage for their clash with Gent. Adding to their momentum, David Gray’s side secured a thrilling win at Ibrox against Rangers in the Premiership.
This string of successes has ignited hopes among fans for a prolonged European run.
Hibs’ European Dream: The Gent Challenge
Pat Nevin, a former Chelsea and Scotland winger, believes Hibs are on the cusp of one of the most significant moments in recent memory.
The Proclaimers’ anthem ‘Sunshine on Leith’ reserved for the most triumphant of victories, could echo loudly at Easter Road if Hibs progress to the Conference League’s league phase.
“It’s a tough challenge, and this is the real test now,” said Nevin. “We’ve been playing against teams from many different countries up until now, but this is a side that has European experience and plays at a higher level.” Nevin’s familiarity with Gent’s capabilities underscores the magnitude of the task ahead. However, he remains optimistic about Hibs’ chances, citing their recent form and the electrifying atmosphere at Easter Road.
The first leg against Gent is set for this Thursday, with the return match at Easter Road the following week. Nevin emphasizes the importance of this fixture, not just for the immediate stakes but for the long-term European football it could secure. “If you’re not a Hibs fan and don’t know much about them, watch the second leg on the radio or television. If Hibs manage to get through at the 90-minute mark, it will be the most beautiful singing of ‘Sunshine on Leith’ you’ve ever heard if they pull this off,” he remarked.
Josh Mulligan: A Star on the Move?
Central to Hibs’ ambitions is the form of Josh Mulligan. His stellar performances in the midfield have caught the eye of Genoa adding to the growing list of Scottish talents making waves in Serie A. Nevin acknowledges the potential for Mulligan to thrive in Italy but hopes his future lies with Hibs.
“As Hibs fans, we’re used to this over the years. It’s been decades, it always happens,” Nevin said. “Your best players perform well, score goals, and then they’re gone.” He highlights the historical trend of Scottish talents being poached by bigger leagues, citing examples like Lewis FergusonBilly Gilmour and Scott McTominay. Nevin believes Mulligan possesses the work ethic and passion that Italian clubs value highly.
“Josh will do fine. Remember the first players who went from Scotland to Italy? You might think moving to Serie A or Serie B would be difficult, but they’re almost all doing fabulous work,” Nevin added. Despite the transfer rumors, he hopes Mulligan remains at Hibs, especially given the team’s recent successes. “I personally hope he doesn’t, because Hibs have had a great week. It was a shaky start to the season, though typical of the slow starts we’ve had in the last two seasons. But things are looking up now,” he concluded.
The coming weeks promise to be a defining period for Hibs. With the Gent play-offs and Mulligan’s future in the spotlight, the team is at a crossroads that could shape their season and the club’s trajectory in European football.
