What’s Behind Chermiti’s Impact on Rohl's Rangers Revolution?

Youssef Chermiti has emerged as a surprising hero for Rangers, delivering a crucial hat-trick in their recent match against Hearts, which transformed the dynamics of the Scottish Premiership title race. Following a tumultuous start to his career at Ibrox, where he faced significant criticism, Chermiti's performance in key matches has revitalised both his standing and the team's fortunes.

Last updated: 15 February 2026 (BST)

What’s happening now

Youssef Chermiti's recent hat-trick against Hearts has propelled Rangers back into contention for the Scottish Premiership title. The victory not only reduced the gap between Rangers and the league leaders Hearts to just two points but also marked a significant turning point in Chermiti's career. After a challenging first half of the season, the 21-year-old striker has demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure, becoming a pivotal figure in Rangers' resurgence under new head coach Danny Rohl.

Key takeaways

• Youssef Chermiti scored a hat-trick against Hearts, marking his first career hat-trick.
• His performance has helped Rangers close the gap on league leaders Hearts to just two points.
• Chermiti has scored five goals in two crucial matches, despite having only seven league goals this season.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey to Chermiti's recent success has been tumultuous. Here’s a brief timeline of key events:

• Summer 2023: Rangers sign Youssef Chermiti for approximately £8 million, amidst scepticism due to his prior two-year goal drought.
• December 2023: Chermiti struggles in his first few months, failing to score in ten consecutive league matches.
• 2 January 2026: Chermiti scores twice against Celtic, leading to a 3-1 victory and the sacking of Celtic's manager Wilfried Nancy.
• 15 February 2026: Chermiti scores a hat-trick in a vital match against Hearts, propelling Rangers into a stronger position in the title race.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Chermiti's hat-trick against Hearts has not only showcased his potential but has also sparked renewed optimism among Rangers fans. This performance is pivotal as it significantly impacts the team's morale and momentum in the league.

What was already established

Prior to this match, Chermiti had been underwhelming, with a total of seven league goals this season and a notable dry spell in scoring. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, however, had been hinted at during the earlier match against Celtic, highlighting his potential to change games.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The excitement surrounding Rangers' title chase can boost local economies, particularly in Glasgow, where match days typically see increased spending in hospitality and retail sectors. The success of local clubs often translates to greater community engagement and local pride.

Businesses and jobs

For Rangers, Chermiti's performance could lead to increased match attendance and merchandise sales, benefiting the club financially. A successful run in the league may also enhance job security within the club as sponsorship and ticket sales rise.

Policy and regulation

Continued success on the pitch may influence discussions among policymakers regarding support for local sports initiatives and infrastructure improvements, especially in light of increased fan engagement and community support.

Numbers that matter

• 5: Chermiti's total goals in the last two matches, highlighting his capacity to deliver in crucial moments.
• 14: Number of games won by Rangers under new manager Danny Rohl out of 19, showcasing a significant turnaround in form.
• 2: Points separating Rangers from league leaders Hearts, indicating a competitive title race.

Definitions and jargon buster

• xG (Expected Goals): A metric used to assess the quality of goal-scoring chances and the likelihood of scoring based on various factors.
• Hat-trick: The term used in football when a player scores three goals in a single match.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Rangers will need to build on this momentum in the coming matches to maintain pressure on Hearts. Chermiti's form will be crucial as they seek to secure victories against other teams in the league.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the season progresses, consistency will be key for Rangers. Chermiti's ability to replicate his recent performances could define not only his career trajectory but also Rangers' title aspirations.

Signals to watch

• Upcoming fixtures against teams in the lower half of the table that Rangers must win to stay competitive.
• Chermiti's scoring form and overall contributions in upcoming matches.
• Reactions from fans and pundits regarding Rangers' performance and management decisions.

Practical guidance

Do

• Keep an eye on Chermiti's performance in upcoming matches; his form could be pivotal for Rangers.
• Attend matches to support the team and boost local business.

Don’t

• Underestimate the impact of a strong finish to the season; every match counts in the title race.
• Disregard the potential for player development; Chermiti may continue to improve significantly.

Checklist

• Monitor Rangers' next fixtures and results.
• Stay updated on player performances, particularly Chermiti's.
• Engage with local fan communities and support initiatives.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Chermiti's recent performances are promising, there are still uncertainties surrounding his consistency and ability to perform under pressure. Critics like Michael Stewart raise valid points about his overall game, which could affect his future contributions. Additionally, the competitive nature of the league means that Rangers must remain vigilant against any slip-ups.

Bottom line

Youssef Chermiti's hat-trick has reinvigorated Rangers' title hopes, signalling a potential turnaround in form under Danny Rohl. As the season approaches its climax, both the player and the team will need to maintain their momentum to realise their aspirations. The coming weeks will be crucial for Rangers as they aim to reclaim their position at the top of Scottish football.

FAQs

How has Youssef Chermiti performed this season?

Youssef Chermiti has had a mixed season, but his recent hat-trick against Hearts signifies a crucial turnaround, showcasing his potential as a key player for Rangers.

What impact does Chermiti's performance have on Rangers' title hopes?

Chermiti's performance has breathed new life into Rangers' title aspirations, reducing the gap to league leaders Hearts and providing a boost in momentum.

What does the future hold for Rangers under Danny Rohl?

Under Danny Rohl, Rangers have shown significant improvement, and if they maintain their form, they could challenge for the title in the final months of the season.