Danny Röhl has expressed a heartfelt wish that James Tavernier, the long‑serving captain of Rangers, should cap off his eleven‑year spell at the club by lifting the Scottish Premiership trophy – a moment he describes as the "beautiful moment" to conclude his time in Glasgow. Tavernier, now 34, confirmed on Wednesday that he will depart Rangers at the end of the current season, marking the end of a remarkable chapter that began when he was signed from Wigan Athletic.
Over the course of his tenure, the right‑back has become a prolific scorer and a leader on and off the pitch, tallying 144 goals in 562 appearances. His contributions helped Rangers clinch the league title in 2021, reach the Europa League final in 2022, and secure both the Scottish Cup and the League Cup during his stay. Röhl’s comments came ahead of Rangers’ upcoming home fixture against Motherwell, who sit fourth in the table, with the club sitting just one point behind league leaders Hearts and two points clear of Celtic with five matches remaining after the league split. In the pre‑match press conference, the German manager underscored the significance of Tavernier’s departure, stating, "It’s a big one, big news for you, for us, for the club, for the fans, for all of them.
Since I have been here he has been a good captain, he leads the group on and off the pitch. He's a legend of the club and has made an amazing career here." He went on to add that Tavernier has witnessed both the highs and the lows of the Rangers’ recent campaigns and that a title win would provide a fitting, triumphant farewell. The manager’s remarks were somewhat unexpected, especially as they arrived just two days after Tavernier had told the media he was comfortable waiting until the summer to decide his future. When asked whether he would have preferred Tavernier to stay another year if he had the final say, Röhl replied, "That's not a topic for today.
He made the final decision. We were very clear on our process. We said, if the time is right, we will speak about him.
He gave me the information before it came out. It was very fair from him. He spoke to the group and I think the most important thing is now, you have 21 days to go. Five games, focus on these five games, and then you will have an incredible goodbye, what he deserves, and this is all that is important for me, for us, for the group, focus to what happens now." Röhl also addressed the injury situation affecting the squad, confirming that left‑back Tuur Rommens and striker Ryan Naderi would miss the upcoming match but might return for the final four fixtures if they recover in time.
This injury news adds another layer of uncertainty as Rangers look to secure the league crown while also planning for the inevitable transition that will follow Tavernier’s exit. Beyond the immediate implications for the title race, Tavernier’s departure represents the end of an era for Rangers. Since arriving from Wigan in 2013, he quickly established himself as a fan favourite, not only for his goal‑scoring prowess—an unusual trait for a defender—but also for his relentless work ethic, leadership qualities, and charismatic personality. His 144 goals place him among the most prolific defenders in British football history, and his ability to strike from set‑pieces and long‑range attempts has often turned matches in Rangers’ favour.
The 2021 Scottish Premiership triumph was a watershed moment for the club, ending a decade‑long wait for the league crown. Tavernier’s decisive contributions, including crucial goals and assists, were instrumental in that success.
The following season, his performances helped Rangers navigate a grueling European campaign that culminated in a Europa League final appearance, a feat that underscored the club’s resurgence on the continental stage. Off the field, Tavernier has been praised for his professionalism and his role as a mentor to younger players.
Teammates have frequently highlighted his willingness to engage with the squad, offering guidance during training sessions and fostering a cohesive team spirit. Röhl’s comments reflect this sentiment, emphasizing that Tavernier’s influence extends beyond his on‑field exploits. Looking ahead, the remaining fixtures are crucial.
With only five games left after the split, Rangers must maintain consistency against a range of opponents, including direct rivals Hearts and Celtic, as well as lower‑ranked sides. The pressure is amplified by the desire to give Tavernier the send‑off he deserves—a championship medal that would encapsulate his eleven‑year legacy.
Fans across Scotland and beyond are already speculating about Tavernier’s next move. While he has not disclosed any concrete plans, rumors suggest he may explore opportunities in other leagues, possibly returning to England or testing a new challenge abroad. Regardless of his destination, his impact on Rangers will be remembered for years to come. In summary, Danny Röhl’s heartfelt appeal underscores a shared ambition: to see James Tavernier lift the Scottish Premiership trophy in his final home games for Rangers, thereby creating a "beautiful moment" that celebrates a decade‑plus of dedication, leadership, and unforgettable performances.
The club’s current position—just a point behind Hearts and two points ahead of Celtic—means that the title race remains very much alive, and the next five matches will determine whether Tavernier’s farewell can indeed be crowned with the ultimate prize. For supporters watching the final stretch, the message from the manager is clear: focus on the remaining fixtures, support the captain in his quest for a triumphant exit, and cherish what could be a historic conclusion to an illustrious career at Ibrox.