ABERDEEN have officially opened talks with potential managerial candidates, but club insiders have dismissed claims that a “preferred” successor to Jimmy Thelin has already been identified.
At Fitba Focus, we understand that Sporting Director Lutz Pfannenstiel presented a refined shortlist to the Pittodrie board earlier this week. While names like St Mirren’s Stephen Robinson and Falkirk’s John McGlynn have been swirling in English-based reports, a senior club source has told us it is “premature” to label anyone as the frontrunner.
The German Connection: Klaus and Gisdol in the Frame?
While the usual SPFL names are doing the rounds, the real intrigue lies in Pfannenstiel’s global contacts. As a man who knows the Bundesliga inside out, it’s no surprise to see Robert Klauß (formerly of Rapid Vienna and Nuremberg) and Markus Gisdol (ex-Hoffenheim and Hamburg) high on the internal list.
Gisdol, in particular, is an interesting one. He’s a specialist in high-pressure situations, and with the Dons currently sitting 8th, his “crisis management” pedigree might be exactly what the board is looking for. However, the club will need to seek formal permission before speaking to any candidates currently in employment.
Peter’s Take: Stability Over Speed
The Red Army is understandably anxious, but the board is right to take their time. We’ve seen what happens when you rush an appointment—just look at the mess we were in before Thelin stabilised things last year. Peter Leven has once again proven he’s the ultimate “safe pair of hands” with that gritty 1-0 Scottish Cup win over Raith Rovers, and he’ll lead the team again this Saturday against Livingston.
Recruitment hasn’t stopped, either:
- Toyosi Olusanya is in the building to complete his loan move from Houston Dynamo.
- Liam Morrison (QPR) and Lyall Cameron have already bolstered the squad this week.
Lutz is clearly building a squad for the next man, ensuring whoever takes the hot seat has the tools to salvage the season.
The Verdict
The “Stephen Robinson” talk feels like the easy link for the national press, but I suspect Lutz has a wildcard up his sleeve from the continent. Whether it’s a German tactical mastermind or a raid on the EFL, the next 48 hours will be critical as the second round of interviews begins.
Dons fans—would you prefer a proven SPFL winner like McGlynn, or is it time to trust Lutz’s German vision? Let us know in the comments!
Co-Founder of Fitba Focus and MMA UK. A lifelong Aberdeen fan with years of experience in the sports media industry, Peter provides expert analysis and a dedicated "Dons" perspective on the Scottish game. He is passionate about giving a voice to fans across the entire Scottish football pyramid.
