Rangers axe begins: Röhl ready to clear out duo as ruthless summer overhaul takes shape amid title chaos

Rangers are heading into one of the most dramatic finishes to a Scottish Premiership season in years, but behind the excitement of a gripping title race, major changes are already unfolding at Ibrox—and they could reshape the squad significantly ahead of next season.

With five games remaining, Rangers are firmly in the hunt for the title, sitting just one point behind leaders Hearts and narrowly ahead of Celtic. It’s a three-way battle that has reignited belief among supporters, especially after a stunning 6–3 victory over Falkirk showcased the attacking power that manager Danny Röhl has brought to the team.

Röhl’s impact since taking over has been transformative. After a turbulent start to the campaign under Russell Martin, Rangers now look revitalized—playing with intensity, purpose, and confidence. The upcoming fixtures against Hearts and Celtic could ultimately decide the destination of the title, and the sense of anticipation around Ibrox is undeniable.

However, while fans focus on the present, the club’s hierarchy is already planning for the future—and it appears that not everyone will be part of it.

Reports suggest that Óscar Cortés and José Cifuentes have effectively played their final games for Rangers. Neither player is currently in the first-team picture, and both are out on loan, with little expectation of a return.

Cortés’ time at Rangers never truly took off. After arriving with promise and making his move permanent for a reported £4.5 million, the winger struggled to establish himself. Loan spells away from Glasgow, including his current stint with Huracán, have only reinforced the likelihood of a permanent exit. His own comments about being settled away from the club have further distanced him from any potential comeback.

Cifuentes’ story follows a similar pattern. The midfielder, once seen as a valuable addition, has spent much of his Rangers career out on loan, featuring for clubs in Brazil, Greece, and now MLS side Toronto FC. Despite flashes of quality, he never secured a consistent role at Ibrox, and with Toronto reportedly holding an option to buy, his departure looks increasingly certain.

Their exits are just part of a broader summer overhaul. Several other players, including Leon King and Ben Davies, are expected to leave when their contracts expire, while loanees such as Derek Cornelius, Max Aarons, and Jayden Meghoma are not anticipated to return. This signals a clear intent from Röhl and the club to reshape the squad in line with his long-term vision.

At the same time, Rangers are exploring potential reinforcements, with discussions reportedly underway over making Tottenham loanee Mikey Moore a permanent addition. It’s a balancing act—clearing out underperforming or surplus players while bringing in fresh talent capable of sustaining the club’s upward trajectory.

What makes this situation particularly intriguing is the timing. Rangers are not rebuilding from a position of weakness—they are doing so while competing for a title. That dual focus speaks volumes about the ambition within the club.

As the season reaches its climax, the spotlight will remain on results and performances. But behind the scenes, a quiet revolution is already in motion. Whether Rangers lift the trophy or fall short, one thing is clear: the squad that takes the field next season could look very different from the one fighting for glory today.

Lucky Joshua

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