Rangers' reward for their heroic Europa League last-16 triumph over Fenerbahce is a powder-keg quarter-final against Athletic Bilbao – with Spanish authorities already planning unprecedented security measures following recent fan violence.
The Ibrox side, managed by club legend Barry Ferguson, will travel to the Basque region next month, three years after their memorable run to the Seville final.
However, the 2,650 traveling Rangers supporters will encounter a city on high alert.
Bilbao mayor Juan Mari Aburto has issued a stern warning following shocking scenes after Athletic's victory over Roma in the previous round.
Despite their team's progression, Bilbao ultras embarked on a destructive rampage – setting bins ablaze, attacking police officers, threatening medical personnel, and vandalising local businesses.
"Already, we are working with the Basque police force, the city police and the government to increase security after an entirely unacceptable night," he declared.
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"For the Rangers game, we will closely coordinate with the Scottish police to gather intelligence and will decide upon appropriate restrictions.
"But you can be sure there will be tighter controls around the surrounding area of the stadium.
"I want to make it clear to those people who caused this damage - we don't want you with us. I call on society to stand up to them.
"We cannot accept attacks against the police forces as normal, we cannot normalise attacks on medical staff in the ambulances.
"In future, the police will do what they have to do."
Rangers secured their quarter-final berth in dramatic fashion with goalkeeper Jack Butland the penalty shootout hero against Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce. After a 3-3 aggregate deadlock, Butland's two crucial saves ignited euphoric celebrations at Ibrox.
Rangers will host Athletic Bilbao on April 10 before the return leg in Spain a week later.
