Aberdeen V Celtic Preview: O’Neill’s Celtic Look to Cut Gap in Granite City Clash
Martin O’Neill’s Celtic look to exploit Hearts’ slip-up and cut the title gap at Pittodrie.
Get the latest Aberdeen FC news, analysis, and opinion on Fitba Focus. From match previews and results to transfer updates and standout performances, this category keeps Dons fans up to date with everything happening at Pittodrie and beyond.
Martin O’Neill’s Celtic look to exploit Hearts’ slip-up and cut the title gap at Pittodrie.
Leighton Clarkson is on the move!The Scottish Cup-winning midfielder has left Aberdeen to join Blackpool in a surprise transfer.
Aberdeen’s away woes reached a new low as they suffered a crushing 3-0 defeat to Kilmarnock, leaving fans in disbelief and frustration.After a promising 6-2 win over Livingston just days prior, the Dons appeared lifeless at Rugby Park, highlighting their ongoing struggles in finding a permanent manager.
In a major boost for Aberdeen FC, the club has secured the signing of Nigerian international Afeez Aremu on a deal lasting until 2028.The dynamic midfielder, who joins from FC Kaiserslautern, marks the Dons’ fifth addition during the January transfer window, promising to bring a physical edge to their squad.
Aberdeen FC have completed the signing of Nigerian international Afeez Aremu on a permanent transfer from German side 1. FC Kaiserslautern. The 26-year-old defensive midfielder has agreed a deal that will keep him at Pittodrie until 2028, subject to visa formalities and international clearance. Aremu becomes the Dons’ fifth signing of the January transfer window, following the arrivals of Lyall Cameron, Liam Morrison, Toyosi Olusanya and Per Kristian Bråtveit, as the club continues to strengthen its squad for the second half of the season. Known for his physical presence and defensive strength, Aremu was a player Aberdeen Sporting Director Lutz Pfannenstiel was eager to secure this month. “Afeez is going to bring a real physical edge to the squad, something which I think we have been looking for,” said Pfannenstiel. “He’s strong, robust and comes with good experience in a competitive environment in Germany. He is also tactically aware, so combined with all his athletic attributes, we believe he can adapt well to the intensity of the Scottish game and make a real impact.” After arriving in the Granite City to complete his move, Aremu expressed his excitement at starting a new chapter in Scotland. “I’m excited to be here. I’ve been made to feel really welcome, and I can’t wait to get started,” he said. “I like new challenges, and I think Aberdeen offers that. For me, I am growing and taking the next step in my career, so it’s a huge move. “I’m an aggressive player, but I have other attributes to my game. There is a lot to play for this season and a chance to move forward. I want to strengthen the team and help them achieve good things. “I’m ready to give everything every time I put the shirt on, and I’m really looking forward to playing in front of the fans.” Aremu’s arrival adds further steel and depth to Aberdeen’s midfield as the Dons push on during the remainder of the campaign.
Aberdeen’s striker Kusini Yengi has made a bold move to Japan, officially joining Cerezo Osaka on loan for the rest of the season!After a frustrating start at Pittodrie, where he only found the net once in 10 league games, Yengi is eager to reignite his career in the J League.
Topi Keskinen is roaring back to form, and Aberdeen fans are buzzing with excitement!After a sensational display that saw him net two goals and assist another in a 6-2 demolition of Livingston, his teammate Nicky Devlin is convinced the Finnish winger can be the game-changer in their quest for a top-six finish.
Chaos reigned at Pittodrie as VAR took center stage in Aberdeen’s explosive 6-2 victory over Livingston.Kevin Nisbet found himself in disbelief after his brilliant goal was controversially disallowed, leaving both managers fuming over a baffling offside call.
Aberdeen’s fourth signing of the January transfer window is Norwegian international goalkeeper Per Kristian Bråtveit. The 29-year-old joins the Dons on an initial 18-month contract, subject to visa formalities and international clearance. Standing at 6ft 2in, Bråtveit will provide competition for Dimitar Mitov following an ankle injury sustained in training by Nick Suman, which is expected to keep him sidelined for an extended period. Dons Sporting Director Lutz Pfannenstiel said: “When we learned the extent of Nick’s injury, we moved quickly to sign Per Kristian, whose contract with Strømsgodset had come to an end last month. “He is an experienced goalkeeper, having played extensively across several strong leagues and clubs, and he also has senior international experience with Norway. “He will provide real competition within the goalkeeping department as we continue to strengthen the squad.” Bråtveit came through the ranks at his hometown club FK Haugesund, making his senior debut in June 2014 at the age of 18. He went on to make almost 125 appearances for the Seagulls before moving to Swedish side Djurgårdens IF, where he spent two seasons and was part of the squad that won the 2019 Allsvenskan title. Around this time, he made his senior debut for Norwegian National Team, having previously represented his country at youth level. He played the full 90 minutes in a 1–1 UEFA Nations League draw with Austria in Vienna. The goalkeeper later had a short-term loan spell with Dutch side FC Groningen during the Norwegian off-season, before spending the 2021–22 season on loan at Nîmes in France. Further spells followed with Vålerenga, Aarhus GF in Denmark and Odds BK, before he spent the last two seasons as first-choice goalkeeper at Strømsgodset. Having sealed his move to the North-east, Per spoke with RedTV. “It feels really good to be here”, said Per. “When Aberdeen made contact it was an easy decision for me to make. I had finished my time in Norway, and I want to do something different, and Aberdeen is such a big club it felt like a great opportunity. “I’m to get to know the league and Scottish football in general. I’ve played in a lot of countries which have given me a lot of experience, but I am excited to call Aberdeen home now.”
Aberdeen confirm the loan signing of Toyosi Olusanya from Houston Dynamo. We examine why the former St Mirren striker’s aggression is the key to the Dons’ January rebuild.
Jesper Karlsson leaves Aberdeen! Peter Knox looks back at the Swede’s Pittodrie impact as his Bologna loan is cut short ahead of a move to FC Utrecht.
Liam Morrison eyes Scotland’s 2026 World Cup squad after completing a loan move to Aberdeen from QPR. Peter Knox analyzes why the former Bayern Munich starlet is the key to the Dons’ defensive revival.
Aberdeenshire is being urged to follow Aberdeen’s game-changing lead by extending pub hours for World Cup matches this summer!With Scotland gearing up to face tough opponents and fans desperate for a pub atmosphere, the call comes as Aberdeen gears up for a late-night celebration with extended opening hours.
Aberdeen’s loan star Jesper Karlsson is heading back to the Netherlands early as his spell at Pittodrie fizzles out.Once lauded as a major signing, Karlsson’s time with the Dons has turned sour after falling down the pecking order following the sacking of his mentor.
Aberdeen manager latest: Lutz Pfannenstiel submits shortlist as talks begin. Peter Knox explores why Stephen Robinson and John McGlynn aren’t the “preferred” candidates yet.
Aberdeen have landed former Bayern Munich defender Liam Morrison on loan from QPR to solve an ongoing injury crisis.
Aberdeen fought through some turbulent waters to secure their place in the fifth round of the Scottish Cup, thanks to a lone goal from Jack Milne.With interim boss Peter Leven finally tasting victory, the Dons ended a frustrating 390-minute goal drought, igniting hopes of silverware once again.
Aberdeen’s captain Graeme Shinnie has issued a rallying cry to his beleaguered teammates as they prepare to defend their Scottish Cup title against Raith Rovers this Sunday.After a dismal run of seven matches without a win, the Dons are feeling the heat, especially following the recent sacking of manager Jimmy Thelin.
Rangers FC midfielder Lyall Cameron is reportedly on the verge of joining Aberdeen FC on loan as part of an unexpected January transfer window development. The 23-year-old, who moved to Rangers from Dundee in the summer of 2025, has found first-team opportunities limited under manager Danny Röhl and could head to Pittodrie to secure more regular playing time. Cameron impressed during his time at Dundee, where his performances attracted interest from several Premiership clubs, including Aberdeen, before his move to Ibrox. According to reports, Aberdeen sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel sees the midfielder as a player who can bring experience and creativity to the Dons’ campaign, even as the club remains without a permanent manager. The temporary move would provide Cameron with a chance to play more consistently in Scotland’s top flight, while Aberdeen look to strengthen its squad during a challenging season. The terms of the deal are still being discussed, with negotiations expected to continue as both clubs work to finalise an agreement.
Aberdeen fans are bracing for a crucial clash as the Scottish Cup returns this weekend, and the Dons are determined to defend their title.After a thrilling triumph over Celtic last season, lifting the trophy for the eighth time, expectation is high—but recent struggles in the Premiership have cast a shadow.
Aberdeen’s downward spiral continues as they fell to a crushing 2-0 defeat against Rangers at Ibrox, marking their sixth straight match without a win.With the pressure mounting under interim coach Peter Leven, the Dons now sit precariously just two points off the top six and face the daunting challenge of another clash against Rangers at Pittodrie.
Rangers have slammed “abhorrent” Aberdeen fans caught mocking the Ibrox Disaster during Sunday’s Pittodrie clash. Following a 2-0 Gers win, footage emerged of supporters making disgraceful gestures referencing the 1971 tragedy. Read the full club statement and investigation details here.
St Mirren boss Stephen Robinson is keeping his head down amid the speculation linking him to Aberdeen’s vacant managerial position.After leading the Buddies to a stunning League Cup victory and solid league finishes, Robinson insists his sole focus is on the next match against Livingston, dismissing outside chatter as mere distraction.
An Aberdeen supporter has been jailed for 18 months after throwing part of a stadium seat onto the pitch and seriously injuring footballer Jack MacKenzie. David Gowans, 31, carried out the attack following a Scottish Premiership match between Aberdeen FC and Dundee United FC at Tannadice Park on 17 May 2025. The incident occurred after the final whistle, as supporters entered the pitch following Dundee United’s 2–1 victory, a result that secured them fourth place in the Premiership and qualification for European competition. Gowans threw the broken seat from the stands, striking then Aberdeen defender Jack MacKenzie in the face. The impact caused a deep two-inch laceration to MacKenzie’s left eyebrow and a five-centimetre abrasion beneath his left eye, leaving him with permanent facial scarring. MacKenzie had gone to the area in front of the travelling Aberdeen supporters to applaud them for their backing when he was hit. The defender has since moved on from Aberdeen and now plays for Plymouth Argyle FC. Sentencing Gowans at Dundee Sheriff Court, Sheriff Alastair Carmichael condemned the actions in strong terms. “Your actions were selfish, stupid, dangerous and utterly irresponsible,” he said.“You must have known that by throwing this item, it could hit somebody. If you didn’t consider this possibility, the level of recklessness is staggering.” The case has renewed calls for tougher action against football-related violence, with authorities stressing that such behaviour has no place in the game.
Rangers star Nico Raskin is under fire for soaking an Aberdeen fan with water. Chris Sutton and Kris Boyd react to the Pittodrie flashpoint. Read more here.
Rangers storm back into 2nd place! Read the 5 talking points as Thelo Aasgaard and James Tavernier sink Aberdeen at a windswept Pittodrie amidst Storm Goretti.
Wayne Rooney has emerged as a long-shot candidate in the betting to become Aberdeen’s next manager, despite not returning to the dugout since his dismissal by Plymouth Argyle in 2024. The former Manchester United and England forward made a promising start to his managerial career at Derby County, earning praise for his work under difficult circumstances. However, his reputation has suffered in recent years following unsuccessful spells at Birmingham City and Plymouth Argyle, with both clubs ultimately relegated after his departure. Since leaving Plymouth, Rooney has stepped away from frontline management and has instead focused on media work as a pundit. Despite this, his name continues to surface when vacancies arise, with Aberdeen the latest club to be linked. Aberdeen are currently searching for a new head coach after parting company with Jimmy Thelin at the start of 2026. The Dons sit eighth in the Scottish Premiership and face the real prospect of missing out on European qualification this season. Going into Sunday’s clash with Rangers FC, the club have yet to appoint a permanent successor. A report published on 9 January stated that Aberdeen director of football Lutz Pfannenstiel has drawn up a shortlist of potential candidates, including experienced German coach Uwe Rösler. Bookmakers, however, see Rooney as an outsider for the role. One firm has installed him as the 10th favourite, pricing the 39-year-old at 33/1 to take charge at Pittodrie. Who is the favourite for the Aberdeen job? The current favourite in the betting is Jens Berthel Askou, who is priced at 2/1. The Motherwell boss has impressed this season, guiding his side to fourth place in the Premiership and into contention for European qualification. Next in the market is German coach Markus Gisdol at 4/1. The 56-year-old has managed extensively across Europe, most recently in Turkey with Kayserispor, although a lack of experience in British football could be viewed as a risk. Rösler remains among the leading contenders at 5/1, although he has publicly played down the speculation. Speaking to German outlet BILD on 9 January, the current VfL Bochum manager stressed his commitment to his current role. “Lutz brought me to Düsseldorf, and we worked very well together. I have a high opinion of him,” Rösler said. “But I am 100 per cent committed to VfL Bochum.”
Aberdeen FC finds itself in hot water yet again after being slapped with a second sanction from the SPFL over reckless pyrotechnic displays.Following a 3-1 victory against Dundee, dangerous incidents left a child injured and fans struggling to breathe, raising major safety concerns.
Is Lutz Pfannenstiel overstepping at Aberdeen? Peter Leven speaks out on dugout advice, the hunt for a new manager, and backing Dimitar Mitov. Read more!
Aberdeen Seek Revenge as Rangers Return to Pittodrie in Premiership Clash Aberdeen FC and Rangers FC renew their rivalry for the second time in just a few days as they meet again in the north east, with plenty at stake in the Scottish Premiership title race. Managerless Aberdeen will be determined to respond after suffering a 2–0 defeat at Ibrox Stadium on Tuesday. That result came only days after the departure of Jimmy Thelin, leaving the Dons in a period of transition. Former midfielder Peter Leven, who grew up supporting Rangers and also played for the club, remains in interim charge as Aberdeen continue their search for a permanent manager. Rangers, now led by Danny Röhl, arrive at Pittodrie aiming to complete a quick-fire double over their rivals. Röhl has made a strong impression since taking charge following the departure of Russell Martin, and another victory would further strengthen his side’s Premiership credentials. With the title race intensifying, Rangers will be eager to maintain pressure at the top of the table, while Aberdeen look to rally in front of their home support and restore some momentum. When is Aberdeen v Rangers? Aberdeen v Rangers takes place on Sunday, January 11, with a 4:30pm kick-off at Pittodrie Stadium. Is Aberdeen v Rangers on TV? Yes. The match will be shown live on Sky Sports Football, Sky Sports Main Event, and Sky Sports Ultra HDR. Coverage begins 30 minutes before kick-off, following Dundee v Hearts. Can I live stream Aberdeen v Rangers? Yes. Sky Sports subscribers can stream the match live via the Sky Go app, while NOW TV customers can also watch through the NOW TV app.
Aberdeen sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel reveals huge interest in the managerial role following Jimmy Thelin’s exit, but some ‘terrible names’ have applied. Find out what qualities the Dons are seeking for their next manager.
Aberdeen are weighing up their next move in the dugout, with former Manchester City and Brentford boss Uwe Rösler emerging as a potential candidate. The German coach is currently out of work after leaving Danish side AGF Aarhus and is understood to be keen on returning to management. Rösler has built a reputation for playing an intense, high-energy style of football and has significant experience across multiple European leagues. The 55-year-old previously enjoyed success in England, most notably guiding Brentford to promotion contention and later lifting the EFL Trophy with Manchester City during his time at the club. He has also managed in Germany, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, giving him a broad tactical and cultural background. Aberdeen’s hierarchy is continuing its search as it looks to appoint a manager capable of delivering consistency, developing players, and restoring momentum both domestically and in Europe. While no appointment is imminent, Rösler’s name is believed to be among those under consideration. Any decision is expected to be made carefully, with the club keen to ensure the next manager fits both the long-term vision and the demands of Scottish football.
Sacked Aberdeen boss Jimmy Thelin could make a rapid return to management, with reports linking the Swede to struggling A-League side Western Sydney Wanderers.