Aberdeen FC manager Jimmy Thelin has called for a significant improvement in team performance following a challenging period marked by an eight-game winless streak. The Swedish coach, who took charge in June 2024, emphasized the necessity of elevating standards to navigate through this difficult phase and return to winning ways.
In a recent interview, Thelin stated, “The big work for me is to push the standards and the performance higher and higher, and that’s what we have to do. There’s no other way around it because from the beginning, it was clear how we want the team to look and what we want to improve, and we’re still in that process.”
This statement came after a 1-0 defeat to Dundee United, where Aberdeen conceded a goal in injury time, extending their winless run to eight matches. Thelin acknowledged the emotional toll of such losses but stressed the importance of maintaining composure and focusing on future games. He remarked, “In difficult times, you have to stay together to get out of the other side – I have no doubt we are going to do that. Right now, it is tough, but we have to get out the other side.”
The manager also highlighted the impact of stress on the team’s performance, noting that maintaining high standards and accountability during games is crucial. He said, “Everything is about how stable you are as a team… We have to keep working on higher standards and accountability inside the game. It’s not easy, especially when you are on this run, the stress that comes too. We must not get panicked, but be calm.”
To address the current slump, Thelin plans to utilize the January transfer window to strengthen the squad. He is collaborating with the club’s recruitment team, including Nuno de Almeida, to identify and acquire players who can enhance the team’s performance. Thelin expressed confidence in this approach, stating, “We can improve the team through training, and the pressure is on me to push that, and also we improve through recruitments, so we have to know how we want the team to look in the future and execute these things step by step.”
Despite the recent downturn, Thelin’s tenure at Aberdeen began positively, with the team achieving 15 wins in their first 16 games under his management. His tactical approach and emphasis on attacking play were initially successful, bringing the team level on points with Celtic at the top of the Premiership.
However, the current winless streak has seen Aberdeen slip to third place in the league, with their lead over fourth-placed Dundee United reduced to three points. Thelin remains optimistic about reversing this trend, focusing on building team cohesion and resilience. He stated, “We need to try to build up the energy again and get strong at the top of the league. That’s what we have to be focused on.”
The manager also addressed the importance of fan support during this challenging period. He acknowledged the frustration of supporters but urged them to remain patient and continue backing the team. Thelin commented, “Our fans always deliver a big away support and back us all the time. They tried to give energy to the players to get the points. Our fans were amazing, and I can understand the frustration.”
Looking ahead, Thelin is preparing the team for upcoming fixtures, emphasizing the need to refocus and strive for better results. He is also considering adjustments to the squad, both in terms of player development and potential new signings, to enhance performance and achieve the club’s objectives for the season. The manager’s commitment to elevating standards reflects his determination to steer Aberdeen through this challenging period and restore their competitive edge in the league.
