“He’s dragging the team down” – Rangers fans turn on their own after 3–0 Europa League humiliation at Brann Stadion
Rangers FC supporters have erupted in fury after their team’s dismal 3–0 Europa League defeat to Brann in Bergen, Norway a result being described by many as one of the most lifeless and embarrassing performances of the season. The loss not only leaves Rangers’ European hopes hanging by a thread but has also sparked an online storm of criticism aimed at one underperforming star who fans say is “dragging the team down.”
The game at Brann Stadion started with optimism but quickly turned into a nightmare. Despite early possession, Rangers never looked in control, lacking both sharpness and composure. Goals from E. Kornvig (40’), J. Sorensen (55’), and N. E. J. Holm (79’) sealed a dominant win for Brann, who outplayed their visitors in every department. By the final whistle, Rangers looked beaten in body and spirit a team without fight, rhythm, or belief.
But it wasn’t just the scoreline that angered fans. Much of the post-match fury centred on Youssef Chermiti, the striker who once again failed to impress and has now become the focal point of fan frustration. Starting up front for the 11th consecutive match, Chermiti was anonymous for large spells, repeatedly losing possession and struggling to link play. Substituted after 76 minutes, he left the pitch to jeers from travelling supporters who had already made their feelings clear.
Within moments of the final whistle, social media exploded with calls for the forward to be dropped or even sold.
“He’s dragging the team down every single week,” one furious supporter posted on X (formerly Twitter). “There’s no fight, no hunger, no urgency. Enough is enough.”
Another fan wrote:
“We’re carrying him every game. You can’t have a striker who doesn’t score or press. It’s time for the manager to wake up.”
The defeat has further exposed Rangers’ struggles in front of goal an issue that has plagued the team throughout the campaign. Chermiti’s form has come under particular scrutiny, with just one goal in his last ten appearances and a growing perception that his confidence has completely evaporated. What was once viewed as a promising signing now looks like a costly gamble that isn’t paying off.
New Manager Danny Rohl tried to deflect the criticism in his post-match comments, insisting that the team as a whole must take responsibility.
“It’s not about one player,” he said. “We win and lose together. Tonight we didn’t show our level, and that’s on all of us. We have to respond as a team.”
However, that message did little to calm the storm. Many fans believe Clement’s loyalty to Chermiti has gone too far, with one supporter writing, “You can’t keep picking someone who offers nothing. It’s hurting the entire attack.” Others have urged the club to bring in reinforcements when the transfer window opens.
Former Rangers defender speaking on BBC Sport, was equally blunt:
“When you’re the No.9 for Rangers, you’ve got to lead the line press, hold up play, make defenders uncomfortable. He didn’t do any of that tonight. He looks short on confidence and belief.”
The defeat leaves Rangers in serious danger of missing out on qualification from their Europa League group, and the performance has raised urgent questions about the squad’s mentality and tactical approach. With key league fixtures approaching, the Ibrox side faces a crucial moment that could define their season.
For Chermiti, the pressure is now at breaking point. Once hailed as a player for the future, he’s quickly becoming the lightning rod for fan frustration. Unless he finds form soon, the calls for his exit may become impossible for the club to ignore.
One thing is certain after the 3–0 humiliation at Brann Stadion, the patience of the Rangers faithful has snapped. The demand for change is loud and clear, and the message to underperforming players is unmistakable: step up or step aside.
