The name James Tavernier is synonymous with Rangers. Since arriving at Ibrox in 2015, he has cemented himself not just as a consistent presence on the pitch, but as a leader, guiding us through some of the highest and lowest points in recent history. However, after nine years, 467 games, 125 goals, and nearly 50 assists, it feels like we may be approaching the end of an era.
Tav’s Could be Tempted to Move
Despite rejecting offers from Saudi Arabia and Turkey earlier in the summer, the latest reports suggest that the door remains open for a potential move. Clubs in both Turkey and Qatar are still eager to snap up the Gers captain, with their transfer windows set to close soon. Istanbul Basaksehir, Fenerbahce, and Galatasaray have all shown interest, while Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s Besiktas are keeping tabs on the situation. Additionally, Qatari sides Al-Arabi and Al-Gharafa are reportedly circling.
The UK transfer window may be shut, but foreign clubs could still swoop in for our skipper, leaving Rangers unable to secure a replacement. With Turkey’s window closing on the 13th of September and Qatar’s on the 9th, the next few days could be crucial for the future of our club captain.
A Servant to the Badge and Club Hall of Fame Member
Let’s be clear—James Tavernier has been a monumental figure for Rangers Football Club. His attacking contributions from right-back are record breaking, especially when you consider that full-backs aren’t supposed to score 125 goals and assist nearly 50 more. Tav’s numbers put him among the most productive defenders in European football, let alone Scotland.
Yet, for all the goals, assists, and marauding runs down the right wing, he’s been a divisive figure at times. Some fans have been critical of his defending and his leadership during tough spells, and the lack of silverware to show for it has only fuelled that fire. Still, the fact remains—managers have come and gone, but every single one has kept him in the team and handed him the captain’s armband. That loyalty speaks volumes about his role in the dressing room and his importance to the team.
Has Time Caught Up with Tav?
However, as we all know, football waits for no one. At 32 years old, Tavernier’s form has dipped. He’s no longer that explosive, pacey right-back who could terrorise opposition defences for 90 minutes. Last season, we began to see the cracks, and unfortunately, this season hasn’t started any better. The pace he once had seems to have faded, and for someone who’s consistently played around 50 games a season over the past nine years, the wear and tear is beginning to show.
His performance against Celtic in the recent Old Firm was disappointing, to say the least. Tavernier, along with most of the squad, failed to step up in a game that means everything to us fans. It’s hard to watch, and even harder to admit, but maybe—just maybe—it’s time for Tav to hang up his Rangers boots.
Unfair Criticism or Fair Frustration?
After the Celtic game, some fans took their frustrations out on Tavernier outside Ibrox, hurling abuse and calling him a “loser.” Let’s make one thing clear—this kind of behaviour is unacceptable. Tavernier has given everything to the club and deserves more respect than that. However, the frustrations are real. We all want to see Rangers back on top, and when things aren’t going our way, it’s easy to point fingers at the captain.
A Dark Day at Parkhead for Rangers
But is all of the criticism justified? He’s not alone in his struggles—there were 10 other players on the park that day, and none of them covered themselves in glory either. Yet, as captain, Tavernier shoulders more responsibility, and when things go wrong, the heat is on him.
A Move Abroad: Good for Tav, Good for Rangers?
With interest from Turkey and Qatar, maybe a move abroad could be the best outcome for both parties. Tavernier has been a loyal servant, but if his legs can’t keep up with the demands of the Scottish game, it might be time for him to seek a new challenge. A fresh start in a less physically demanding league could prolong his career, and Rangers would get the opportunity to evolve and possibly bring in a new leader.
While it’s bittersweet to consider life without Tav, the reality is that no player lasts forever. It’s hard to imagine our right flank without him bombing forward, but maybe this is the natural progression of things.
What’s Next for Rangers?
If Tavernier does move on, it leaves us with a big hole to fill—not just on the pitch but in the locker room as well. Tav is the last of the squad that made it to the Europa League final in 2022. His departure would mark the end of that chapter in our history, but it also signals the beginning of a new one.
The next week is going to be crucial. Will we see our captain leave for pastures new? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain—James Tavernier will go down as one of the greats in Rangers history, regardless of what happens next.
Let’s just hope we can find the right replacement to lead us into this next era.
What do you think? Should Tav stay, or is it time for him to move on? Let us know in the comments below, and stay tuned to Ibrox Insider for all the latest updates on this developing story.