Aberdeen Prepares for Upcoming Matches Against Rangers Amid Manager Search

Aberdeen is set to face Rangers in their next two fixtures.

**Scottish Premiership: Rangers vs. Aberdeen**
**Venue:** Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow
**Date:** Tuesday, 6 January
**Time:** 20:00 GMT

**Coverage:** Listen on BBC Radio Scotland Extra & Sounds; live text commentary available on the BBC Sport website and app.

Lutz Pfannenstiel, the sporting director of Aberdeen, has stated that the players have six months to demonstrate their worth as the club searches for a new manager following the departure of Jimmy Thelin. Pfannenstiel will support interim manager Peter Leven, who is tasked with leading the team until a permanent appointment is made.

Thelin’s exit came after a disappointing loss to Falkirk, which left Aberdeen in eighth place within the Scottish Premiership. Leven’s upcoming match against Rangers marks the beginning of his third stint as interim manager.

“You now have six months to show your abilities and prove that you are worthy of wearing this badge—that you aspire to be an Aberdeen player and are willing to put in the work,” Pfannenstiel communicated to club media.

He emphasized the need for the players to elevate their game, stating, “If we are merely going through the motions and lacking intensity on the pitch, it indicates a need for substantial change.”

“We maintain an open-door policy at this moment. We have numerous players available for selection. Bringing in a new manager typically resets the situation, providing an opportunity for all players, whether long-term or recent additions, to start afresh and demonstrate their commitment to the team.”

Pfannenstiel made it clear that performance is paramount: “The best XI will take the field. Being eighth in the league is unacceptable.”

In terms of squad changes, Alfie Dorrington has departed Aberdeen following his second loan spell from Tottenham. Pfannenstiel suggested that further player departures are likely, with potential new signings anticipated in January.

“While we have a talented squad, having individually skilled players does not guarantee a cohesive team. We need players who can enhance the overall quality and strengthen our squad’s dynamics.”

He acknowledged, “Significant changes are forthcoming—our squad is larger than necessary. The initial step will involve reducing our player count while potentially adding one or two quality individuals capable of making an immediate impact. We may need to bolster around six positions to improve our performance.”

As the search for a new manager progresses, Pfannenstiel noted the presence of notable candidates, stating, “There are some big names, some surprising entries, and a few less favorable ones from various nationalities.”

He emphasized the importance of a careful selection process to avoid making a hasty decision, indicating that the club is aiming for a manager who can instill a high-pressing, hardworking, and high-intensity style of play.

Pfannenstiel expressed confidence in Leven, who achieved six victories in twelve matches during his previous interim appointments.