Hearts clash concern: Röhl mirrors Rangers mistake that could backfire

Danny Röhl has once again labelled Rangers F.C.’s upcoming clash with Heart of Midlothian F.C. as a “final,” but recent results suggest his side are struggling to live up to that mindset.

The German coach has used that terminology repeatedly in recent weeks as Rangers’ title challenge has begun to fade. Their latest setback—a 3-2 defeat to Motherwell F.C. at Ibrox Stadium—dealt another blow to their hopes of lifting the Scottish Premiership title.

Now, a trip to Tynecastle Park on 4 May could prove decisive, with Hearts in a strong position to shape the outcome of the title race.

While Röhl has spoken about treating each game as a must-win encounter, his recent team selections have told a different story. Rangers have appeared cautious rather than aggressive, raising questions about whether they are truly approaching matches with a do-or-die mentality.

One example came against Motherwell, where Mikey Moore was left on the bench due to fitness concerns. Critics argue that if the match was genuinely viewed as a “final,” greater risks—such as starting the Tottenham loanee—might have been justified.

Ahead of the Hearts clash, Röhl doubled down on his message, insisting his side must deliver performances “over 100 percent” across their final fixtures. However, a recent training camp abroad appears to have done little to halt a dip in form, particularly defensively, with the team showing increasing vulnerability at the back.

There is also a growing sense that Röhl’s own messaging has added pressure rather than clarity. By repeatedly framing matches as finals, expectations have intensified—and the failure to deliver in those moments has only amplified scrutiny.

Defeat to Motherwell already exposed that tension, and a similar outcome at Tynecastle—or in upcoming clashes with Celtic F.C.—could further damage confidence in his ability to guide the club to silverware.

Röhl has undoubtedly overseen progress since arriving, but questions remain over whether he is the manager capable of taking Rangers the final step. With the spotlight firmly on him, the coming fixtures could define not just the title race, but also perceptions of his long-term future at Ibrox.