Danny Röhl, the newly appointed manager of Rangers, has made it clear that he would love to see club captain James Tavernier end his eleven‑year spell at Ibrox with a "beautiful moment" – namely, hoisting the Scottish Premiership trophy one final time. The 34‑year‑old right‑back confirmed on Wednesday that he will be leaving the club at the end of the season, bringing to a close a remarkable tenure that began when he was signed from Wigan Athletic. During his time at Rangers, Tavernier has become a prolific scorer and an inspirational leader, amassing 144 goals in 562 appearances, guiding the team to the 2021 Scottish league crown, reaching the Europa League final in 2022, and adding both the Scottish Cup and the League Cup to his list of honours.
Röhl’s comments came as Rangers head into the final stretch of the campaign with five matches remaining after the league split. The team sit just one point behind league leaders Hearts and two points clear of fierce rivals Celtic, and they travel to Motherwell on Sunday for a crucial home fixture against the fourth‑placed side. When asked about Tavernier at the pre‑match press conference, the German coach emphasized the magnitude of the situation: "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." Röhl went on to reflect on the captain's journey, noting that Tavernier has witnessed both the highs and the lows of Rangers' recent history.
"He saw all the good moments. He's also seen some not so good moments and hopefully at the end of the season he can see again a beautiful moment.
For big players should have also have a big goodbye, and the biggest goodbye would be going with a title," the manager said, underscoring his desire for a fitting farewell. The timing of Tavernier’s announcement surprised many, as it arrived only two days after the captain had told the media that he was comfortable waiting until the summer to decide his future. When Röhl was asked whether he would have preferred Tavernier to stay for another year if it were entirely his decision, the manager 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 disclosed that left‑back Tuur Rommens and striker Ryan Naderi are still sidelined with injuries, though there is optimism that they could return for the final four fixtures.
Their potential comeback adds an extra layer of intrigue to the closing stages of the title race, as Rangers look to secure enough points to either clinch the championship or at least finish on a high note for their departing captain. James Tavernier’s impact on Rangers extends far beyond the statistics. His leadership qualities, work ethic, and ability to score crucial goals from a defensive position have made him a fan favourite and a role model for younger players.
His trademark long‑range free‑kicks and relentless pressing have become synonymous with the modern Rangers style of play. Moreover, his commitment to the community, involvement in charitable initiatives, and consistent professionalism have cemented his status as a true club legend. The prospect of ending his Rangers career with a league title holds special significance for both the player and the supporters.
A championship would not only provide a storybook conclusion to an illustrious chapter but also serve as a testament to the dedication and resilience that Tavernier has shown throughout his eleven‑year spell. It would also give the fans a memorable moment to cherish, reinforcing the emotional bond between the captain and the Rangers faithful. As the season draws to a close, the atmosphere at Ibrox is charged with anticipation. The remaining fixtures will test the squad’s depth, tactical flexibility, and mental fortitude.
Manager Danny Röhl has stressed the importance of concentrating on each of the five games left, rather than looking too far ahead. This pragmatic approach aims to keep the players focused, minimize distractions, and maximize performance when it matters most. In addition to the domestic league, Rangers are also competing in the Scottish Cup and the League Cup, offering further opportunities for silverware.
However, the primary narrative for the club at this juncture revolves around giving James Tavernier the grand farewell he deserves. Whether the team can secure the title remains to be seen, but the collective resolve to honor their captain is already evident. Fans across Scotland and beyond are encouraged to tune in to the live broadcasts on Sky Sports or stream the matches via the NOW platform, ensuring they do not miss the potential climax of this dramatic season. The excitement surrounding the final weeks promises to deliver high‑octane football, emotional farewells, and perhaps, for Tavernier, the coveted moment of lifting the Scottish Premiership trophy one last time before his departure.