A deep dive into the managerial upheavals and performance fluctuations of Aberdeen FC in 2024.
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The year 2024 has been nothing short of a rollercoaster for Aberdeen FC, with fans experiencing a whirlwind of emotions as the club navigated through a series of managerial changes and fluctuating performances. The Dons, known for their passionate supporters, faced a challenging season that saw four different managers take the helm, including one who returned for a second stint.
This article delves into the highs and lows of Aberdeen’s tumultuous journey throughout the year.
Early signs of trouble
The final month of 2023 hinted at the challenges that lay ahead for Aberdeen. After a promising Europa Conference League campaign, where they secured a 2-0 victory against Eintracht Frankfurt, the mood quickly soured.
A disappointing performance in the League Cup final against Rangers, coupled with a 3-0 defeat to St Mirren, set the stage for a tumultuous transition into 2024. Manager Barry Robson’s comments post-match only added fuel to the fire, leaving fans frustrated and disheartened.
Managerial shake-ups and their impact
As the transfer window opened, the club’s situation worsened with more players leaving than arriving. Robson’s dismissal on January 31 marked the beginning of a chaotic managerial carousel. First-team coach Peter Leven stepped in, managing to secure a draw against Celtic, but the club remained in the bottom half of the table. The arrival of veteran manager Neil Warnock brought hope, but his tenure quickly turned sour, with only two wins in eight matches. The Dons found themselves in a precarious position, prompting Leven to return once more.
Resurgence under Leven and the arrival of Thelin
Leven’s second stint proved to be a turning point for Aberdeen. He led the team to an impressive unbeaten streak, culminating in a strong finish in the Scottish Premiership. Despite a heartbreaking penalty shootout loss to Celtic in the Scottish Cup semi-final, Leven’s leadership instilled a sense of resilience within the squad. The club’s pursuit of Elfsborg’s Jimmy Thelin eventually paid off, as he took over in June, bringing a fresh perspective and renewed energy to the Dons.
A bright start and subsequent challenges
Thelin’s arrival marked a new chapter for Aberdeen, as the team enjoyed a remarkable run of 13 consecutive wins in the League Cup and league matches. The Dons showcased an attractive style of play, and Thelin’s managerial prowess earned him accolades, including Manager of the Month honors. However, the euphoria was short-lived, as a crushing 6-0 defeat to Celtic in the League Cup semi-final served as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead. The team struggled to maintain momentum, and by the end of the year, they found themselves grappling with the threat of relegation.
Looking ahead to 2025
As 2024 draws to a close, Aberdeen FC faces a critical juncture. The need for strategic reinforcements and a solid plan for the upcoming transfer window is paramount. The club’s ability to regroup and refresh its squad will significantly influence its fortunes in 2025. With the Dons’ passionate fanbase behind them, there remains hope that the team can rise from the ashes of a tumultuous year and reclaim its position among Scotland’s elite.
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