Tension rises as Rangers reject Danny Röhl’s demand to offload three legendary players
By BBC Sport
Tensions are reportedly escalating at Rangers following the club’s decision to reject new head coach Danny Röhl’s request to offload three senior players, with sources suggesting that the German manager is seriously considering stepping down from his role. The situation reportedly intensified after Rangers suffered a 3–0 humbling defeat to Norwegian side Brann in their opening Europa League fixture under Röhl.
Röhl, who took over as Rangers head coach few days ago, has been tasked with rejuvenating a squad that has struggled to maintain consistency in domestic and European competitions. However, his efforts to reshape the team have reportedly met resistance from the board, particularly regarding the futures of three established players, widely described as “club legends.”
The names of the players involved have not been officially confirmed, but insiders suggest that these are senior figures who have been central to Rangers’ recent successes. Röhl, a young coach with a reputation for tactical rigor and a preference for high-intensity, pressing football, is understood to have identified these players as not fitting his long-term vision for the squad.
According to multiple sources close to the club, the dispute reached a critical point following the defeat to Brann. Club officials are said to be reluctant to part ways with players who remain fan favourites, citing their experience and leadership qualities as vital for maintaining stability within the squad.
The first competitive match under Röhl highlighted gaps in the team’s cohesion and balance. While the board saw the defeat as part of the adaptation process, Röhl reportedly viewed it as confirmation that significant changes were required to align the squad with his tactical philosophy.
Mediators within the club attempted to bridge the gap between Röhl and the board, but talks are said to have reached an impasse. Sources suggest that Röhl is frustrated by what he perceives as the club prioritising sentimentality and reputation over tactical efficiency and long-term planning.
The situation has sparked widespread speculation in the Scottish media about Röhl’s future. Some pundits have praised his boldness in advocating for a squad overhaul, while others have warned that an early confrontation with senior players and the board could destabilise the team.
A statement from Rangers confirmed that discussions about the squad are ongoing but declined to comment on individual player situations. “The club remains committed to supporting Danny Röhl in his role as head coach,” the statement read. “We are reviewing all aspects of squad planning in line with the club’s long-term objectives.”
Fans have reacted with a mixture of concern and curiosity on social media platforms. While some supporters have expressed sympathy for Röhl’s desire to implement his vision, others have voiced apprehension about the potential departure of veteran players who have contributed significantly to Rangers’ domestic and European campaigns.
Former players and football analysts have also weighed in on the unfolding situation. Several have noted that conflicts between coaches and club management over player personnel are not uncommon, particularly when a new manager seeks to impose a modern, demanding style on an established squad. However, few have witnessed such a high-profile standoff so early in a coach’s tenure at a major Scottish club.
If Röhl were to resign, Rangers would face the challenge of identifying a successor capable of balancing fan expectations, the influence of senior players, and the tactical vision the club hopes to maintain. Such a scenario would undoubtedly attract significant media attention, both domestically and abroad, and could influence the club’s ongoing campaigns in domestic competitions and European tournaments.
For now, Rangers supporters are left in a state of uncertainty. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Röhl remains in charge and can execute his vision or whether the club faces a sudden managerial upheaval that could shape the rest of the season.
