on august 24, 2015, zelalem was loaned to rangers until january. he made his debut in a 5–0 win over airdrieonians in the scottish league cup, setting up goals for martyn waghorn and james tavernier. he made his league debut in rangers' scottish championship game against queen of the south which rangers won 5–1. in january 2016 his loan was extended through to the end of the season.