Trusty’s United States face Raskin’s Belgium in Seattle, guaranteeing that one of the two players will be eliminated.
If Belgium advance, Raskin could remain involved until at least the next knockout round, making his availability for Rangers’ opener difficult to assess. If the United States progress, Trusty faces another fixture before returning to Celtic’s preparations.
The timing also affects Aasgaard. Norway’s meeting with England on 11 July would leave only 20 days before Rangers begin their league campaign.
The 21-day period agreed between and players’ unions is guidance rather than a binding competition rule. Clubs can technically select returning players, but the practical question is whether they have had enough recovery and training.
Trusty offers the clearest example. A United States quarter-final appearance would leave him 23 days before Celtic’s match with Dundee, but only two days of club training after the recommended break. That schedule makes a starting role appear unlikely, even if he is eligible to play.
For Rangers, Raskin’s situation depends entirely on Belgium’s result. A shorter tournament run would give him time to rest before the league opener; a deeper run would force the club to consider alternatives in midfield.
The Old Firm’s opening line-ups may therefore be shaped by international progress rather than tactical preference. The clubs need contingency plans without treating tournament players as automatic starters.
The next decisive moment comes in Seattle. Once Trusty or Raskin exits, the focus will shift to recovery dates, training involvement and whether either player can influence the opening weekend from the bench.