Aberdeen Football Club are on the verge of appointing Stephen Robinson as their new permanent manager, having successfully activated a release clause in his contract with St Mirren. The Dons have been without a permanent manager for over two months following the dismissal of Jimmy Thelin in early January, and they have now moved swiftly to secure Robinson's services.
Imminent Appointment Finalised in Aberdeen
The 51-year-old Northern Irishman travelled to Aberdeen on Wednesday to iron out the final details of his transition to Pittodrie. Barring any unforeseen last-minute complications, the club anticipates that Robinson will be in the dugout for their upcoming Scottish Premiership home fixture against Falkirk on Saturday. This development marks a significant shift in strategy for Aberdeen, who had initially planned to delay a permanent appointment until the summer.
Club's Hand Forced by Dismal Form
Chairman Dave Cormack had publicly stated last week that the club would not be rushed into hiring a new manager, even name-checking Sandro Schwarz as a potential candidate. However, Aberdeen's alarming slide towards relegation trouble, culminating in a humiliating 3-0 Scottish Cup defeat to Championship side Dunfermline last weekend, forced the board's hand. The club's dreadful run of form—losing six of their last eight matches across all competitions—made immediate action imperative.
Previously, Aberdeen had hoped that interim boss Peter Leven could steady the ship until the end of the season. A move for Norwegian manager Eirik Horneland had also collapsed last month due to personal reasons. Robinson's existing relationship with Aberdeen chief executive Alan Burrows, from their time together at Motherwell, played a key role in his identification as the ideal candidate to rescue the season.
Official Statements Confirm Permission Granted
Aberdeen released an official statement confirming the situation: 'Aberdeen FC has this morning been officially given permission to enter formal talks with St Mirren manager Stephen Robinson regarding the vacant managerial position. The club will provide an update in due course.' St Mirren responded with their own statement, acknowledging: 'Aberdeen have met a contractual clause in Stephen's contract so the club has granted them permission to speak to him regarding the vacancy. We hope for a swift resolution to this matter and will keep supporters updated.'
Robinson's Track Record and Current Challenges
Stephen Robinson, who has previously managed Oldham Athletic, Motherwell, and Morecambe, took charge of St Mirren in February 2022. During his four-year tenure, he achieved notable success, including leading the club to League Cup glory against Celtic last December and securing three consecutive top-six finishes in the Scottish Premiership. However, this season has been more challenging, with St Mirren currently languishing in 10th place in the league, despite a recent Scottish Cup quarter-final victory over Partick Thistle.
Robinson now faces the immediate task of revitalising an Aberdeen side sitting ninth in the Premiership and embroiled in a relegation battle. His first match in charge is poised to be against Falkirk, while St Mirren are set to host Rangers on Sunday without their manager. This appointment represents a critical juncture for both clubs as they navigate the remainder of the season.
