Rangers captain James Tavernier has confirmed he will leave the club at the end of the season, bringing an end to an 11-year spell that has defined an era at Ibrox.
The 34-year-old right-back admitted the decision “hasn’t been easy” after revealing he will not be extending his stay, with his current contract set to expire this summer.
“This club has been a huge part of my life and my family’s over the past 11 years,” Tavernier said in a statement. “From the moment I arrived, I’ve always tried to give everything to represent it the right way.”
Since joining from Wigan Athletic in 2015, Tavernier has made 562 appearances for Rangers, scoring 144 goals and registering 148 assists – remarkable numbers for a defender.
Appointed captain in 2018, he has been a central figure through multiple managerial eras and some of the club’s most significant modern achievements.
Despite confirming his departure, Tavernier insists his full focus remains on the pitch as Rangers push for the Scottish Premiership title.
The Ibrox side are currently second in a tightly contested three-way race, sitting just one point behind Hearts and two ahead of Celtic with five games remaining.
“There is still a season to finish and we are fully focused on pushing for the league title,” he added. “I will continue to give everything until the very last day.”
Tavernier’s legacy at Rangers is built on extraordinary consistency and attacking output. Over 11 seasons, he has delivered elite-level numbers rarely seen from a full-back.
Even in his final season, he remains Rangers’ top scorer with 14 goals, alongside six assists.
His goal tally includes a significant number of penalties, but his overall contribution places him among the most productive defenders in football history.
In fact:
Across his career, Tavernier has scored 152 goals – a record unmatched by any defender in British football.
During his time at Ibrox, Tavernier played under 10 managers and helped deliver:
While silverware has at times been limited, his influence during both successful and turbulent periods has been undeniable.
With his role reduced this season under Danny Rohl and Rangers entering a new phase, Tavernier’s departure signals a natural transition.
His leadership, longevity and output have made him one of the most debated yet impactful figures in the club’s modern history.
A second league title would provide the perfect farewell – and further cement his place among Rangers greats.
