In November, Aberdeen supporters were filled with hope for a championship run. Under Jimmy Thelin’s leadership, the team had achieved an impressive record, winning 10 out of their first 11 league matches and sitting at the pinnacle of the Scottish Premiership.
Unfortunately, a dream season has spiraled into a nightmarish phase. Following their 4-1 triumph over Dundee, the Dons have endured a winless streak, suffering seven defeats in their last 10 matches. This dismal run has resulted in a drop to fourth in the standings, leaving them a staggering 22 points behind Celtic.
While fans and Thelin anticipated some hurdles along the way, the magnitude of their current slump was unforeseen. The pressing question remains: what has gone awry at Pittodrie?
Injuries, defensive fragility, and a significant drop in scoring ability have all converged to create a multitude of problems for the Dons, leaving Thelin in a challenging position.
Improving Performance is Key
Thelin acknowledges the need for enhancement. “It’s football; sometimes we encounter issues we must rectify—be it within the team, our game, or performance,” he affirmed ahead of a crucial match against Hearts. “We need to improve. Even during our victorious streak, we identified areas requiring development to establish a stable team capable of competing for European spots.”
Despite key injuries, including that of top goalscorer Pape Gueye, Thelin remains optimistic about the squad’s potential to recover. “It offers opportunities for other players to step up and showcase their abilities,” he noted.
Aberdeen has maintained higher possession rates over their last 10 games compared to their earlier matches; yet, they’ve struggled to convert this into goals, reflecting a concerning lack of sharpness in front of goal. Additionally, injuries to players such as Gavin Molloy and Vicente Besuijen have compounded their troubles.
Boosting the Squad This January
As the January transfer window opens, Thelin has already secured new talents, including winger Jeppe Okkels and defender Kristers Tobers, aiming to revitalize the squad. “Reinforcing the team is a continuous goal,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of finding the right player profiles to ensure long-term growth.
Fans’ Perspective
Supporters have voiced concerns over the team’s recent performances. Observers from the ABZ Football Podcast expressed that the team’s previous confidence has waned, now affecting their on-field actions and outcomes. “The clear deficiencies in the squad are becoming more pronounced,” a fan remarked, pointing out that while the team initially masked these issues with wins, the lack of scoring and consistent defensive breakdowns is now evident.
Aberdeen fans remain hopeful for a turnaround, as many had hoped for a top-six finish at the season’s start. Now, with aspirations for a higher standing and the upcoming Scottish Cup, the priority is clear: securing victories and continuing to improve the squad through strategic signings this January.
