Captain James Tavernier has confirmed he will leave Rangers this summer, ending an 11-year tenure at Ibrox that saw him become a club legend.
The 34-year-old defender revealed the decision on social media, describing it as "not easy" after more than a decade with the Scottish Premiership side. Tavernier's current contract expires at season's end, and he confirmed no new deal has been offered by the club.
"This club has been a huge part of my life and my family's over the past 11 years," Tavernier wrote. "It's given me so much, both on and off the pitch, and from the moment I arrived I've always tried to give everything I had to represent it in the right way."
Tavernier has made 562 appearances for Rangers since joining from Wigan Athletic in 2015, scoring 144 goals and providing 148 assists—remarkable numbers for a right-back. He was appointed permanent captain in 2018 under manager Steven Gerrard and led the team to the Scottish Premiership title in 2021, ending Celtic's nine-year dominance.
"To have had the honour of being made captain of this club since 2018 is something I will always be incredibly proud of," he added. "Leading this team out, wearing the armband and being trusted in that role has meant more to me than I can properly put into words."
A Decade of Transformation
Tavernier's Rangers career spanned two divisions and ten different managers. He arrived when the club was in the Scottish Championship, helped secure promotion, and became a central figure during their return to the top flight. Beyond the league title, he captained Rangers to the Scottish Cup in 2022 and the League Cup in 2023, while also leading the team to the Europa League final that same year.
Despite his veteran status, Tavernier emphasized his commitment to Rangers' current title challenge. The team sits second in the Premiership, just one point behind leaders Hearts with five games remaining.
"There is still a season to finish and we are fully focused on pushing for the league title," Tavernier stated. "I will continue to give absolutely everything, as I always have until the very last day. My focus right now is on finishing this season the right way, together."
The captain's playing time has diminished this season under manager Danny Rohl, with Dujon Sterling often preferred at right-back. Jack Butland and Nico Raskin have both deputized as captain in recent matches.
Tavernier did not reveal his next destination but hinted that his playing career continues: "This isn't the end just yet." His departure marks the conclusion of one of Rangers' most significant modern eras, with the club now facing a summer of transition as they bid farewell to their long-serving skipper.