James Tavernier has announced he will leave Rangers at the end of the season, ending an 11-year spell at the club. The Rangers captain said in a social media statement that he has decided this will be his final season, though he remains focused on the title race. The 33-year-old has not yet been offered a new contract, according to Tavernier himself, who told BBC Sport that no offer has been made. In an interview with Daily Mail - Sport, Tavernier said he believes he can play for another three or four years, describing his body as feeling great and noting he has never suffered muscular injuries. However, the Daily Mail reported a definitive decision to leave, while BBC Sport quoted Tavernier saying he does not know if he will be at Rangers next season and that 'time will tell'. This discrepancy may stem from the timing of the social media announcement, which appears to have been made after the BBC interview.
Tavernier is no longer an automatic pick under manager Danny Rohl, according to multiple reports. Despite his reduced role, the right-back has won each of the major domestic honours once with Rangers, including the Scottish Premiership title in 2021, the Scottish Cup, and the League Cup. He is also the top scoring defender in British football history, a record that underscores his attacking contributions from full-back. In his social media statement, Tavernier reflected on his time at the club, saying: "To have had the honour of being made captain of this club since 2018 is something I will always be incredibly proud of." He also highlighted lifting the Scottish Cup, the League Cup, the journey to a European final, and winning the league title as unforgettable moments.
Rangers currently trail Hearts by one point with five games to play, according to multiple reports. They are two points ahead of third-placed Celtic, keeping the title race tight. Rangers trailed Hearts by 11 points when Russell Martin was sacked, but have since closed the gap dramatically. The team has only lost twice in the league all season, according to Tavernier, reflecting their strong form under Rohl. Tavernier acknowledged the team's improvement, telling BBC Sport that the mentality shift since the manager arrived has been significant and that the team is moving in the right direction. He said they have put themselves in a good position heading into the split.
Tavernier has made 49 appearances this season, 36 as a starter, according to major media reports. His playing time has been managed as he approaches the end of his Rangers career. It remains unknown which club he will join next, or whether Rangers have made any attempt to offer him a new contract beyond the lack of an offer he confirmed. Tavernier told Daily Mail - Sport that any decision will be about what is right for himself and his family, and that he will have a conversation with his wife and kids. He also said he is not someone who thinks too long-term and has full belief in his ability. In his statement, Tavernier said: "While I feel the time is right for a new challenge, my focus right now is on finishing this season the right way, together." He added that he will continue to give everything until the very last day.