Jimmy Thelin reacts to Aberdeen sacking as Dave Cormack explains decision

The Swede departs after 18 months in charge following a 1-0 defeat at Falkirk on Saturday - a fourth loss in five games which has left the Pittodrie side eighth in the Scottish Premiership table.

Thelin guided Aberdeen to a historic first Scottish Cup victory in 35 years in May but oversaw the club's worst start to a season in 26 years this season by losing the opening seven matches. A recovery was made during a run of eight games unbeaten across November and December, however, a fresh slump has prompted the Dons board to swing the axe.

"Results and performances have fallen below the required standard and have not been commensurate with the level of investment made in the first-team squad and football operation," read an Aberdeen statement confirming the departure of Thelin and his assistant Christer Persson.

Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack added: “In wishing Jimmy and Christer the very best for the future I want to thank them for delivering our first Scottish Cup win in 35 years last May.

“These memories will last a lifetime, and Jimmy will be forever etched into Aberdeen’s history for delivering such a special day for our supporters, as only one of six Aberdeen managers to win the Scottish Cup in our storied 122-year history.

“However, after significant investment in recent windows, we have not kicked on in the way we hoped or expected following that success. We have tried to give the situation as much time as possible, but recent performances have been significantly below the standards we expect, and we believe it is now right to take a different direction.”

Thelin was appointed in June 2024, signing a three-year deal after leading Elfsborg to two second-placed finishes in the Swedish top flight. He made a dream start, winning all 13 of his first 13 games across all competitions - beating Martin O'Neill's record of 12 at Celtic for the best-ever start as a manager in Scotland.

However, a 14-game winless run saw them drop down the table - eventually finishing fifth, before the Scottish Cup win over Celtic at Hampden salvaged the campaign.

Aberdeen also endured poor form in Europe this season, albeit against strong opposition, finishing second bottom of the Conference League table with two draws and six losses from their six group games, having been knocked out of the Europa League play-offs by Romanian club Steaua Bucuresti.

In a gracious reaction to his dismissal, Thelin stated: “Today my time as manager at Aberdeen comes to an end. It is with great respect for this historic club that I accept this decision.

"Results ultimately decide the tenure of this profession, and as such I take my share of responsibility. I believe wholly in the work that was done; however, football doesn’t always allow time for belief to become results.

"I would like to thank the players for their commitment and effort during my time as their coach, and the staff who worked every day with loyalty and pride. I would also like to thank the supporters. Your passion for your team never waivers, even in disappointment.

“Aberdeen will forever be a part of my journey, and it has been an honour to lead this great Club and share that memorable day together at Hampden. I leave wishing success to everyone involved both on and off the pitch.”

First-team coach Peter Leven has been placed in caretaker charge of the first-team ahhead of a league double-header against Rangers, starting with a visit to Ibrox on Tuesday night.

He will supported by Craig Hinchliffe and sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel, who will also lead the process to appoint the Dons' next permanent manager.