Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin has called on his players to “drop their egos” and focus on team spirit after another disappointing defeat left the Dons struggling in the Scottish Championship 2025-26 season. The 1-0 loss to Falkirk marked Aberdeen’s fourth defeat in five games, raising questions about the squad’s mentality and cohesion.

Thelin Breaks Cover to Critique His Players

Rarely do managers publicly demand introspection from their own squad, but Thelin was candid following the match at Falkirk.

“Of course, I’m the manager and responsible, but also sometimes the players have to look at themselves in the mirror and see what football is more about,” he told BBC Scotland.

After a promising unbeaten run that included a narrow victory over league leaders Hearts, Aberdeen have slipped back into a slump reminiscent of early-season struggles, leaving fans frustrated and concerned.

Team Spirit Over Tactics

Thelin emphasized that football is about more than technique and tactical systems. He praised Falkirk’s desire to win and admitted Aberdeen must rediscover that same competitive spirit.

“Football is much more than technique and systems. It’s more about how you act on the football pitch. We have to change that as quickly as possible,” Thelin said.
“Even if we don’t have a perfect game or don’t win, they should always feel that we give everything. Right now, we can’t give them that and that’s not good enough.”

The Aberdeen manager has previously called out his squad during tough periods, including last season’s 14-game winless streak, which ended their title hopes and saw them drop to fifth place. This frankness demonstrates Thelin’s commitment to accountability across the squad, not just from himself.

Underperforming Stars and Squad Struggles

A look at Aberdeen’s squad reveals why Thelin’s criticism resonates. Several summer signings have struggled to adapt, including Adil Aouchiche and Jesper Karlsson, while goalkeeper Dimitar Mitov has made costly errors. Former talents like Leighton Clarkson and Kevin Nisbet have also failed to live up to expectations, leaving the team lacking consistency and cohesion.

“Football is so much more than tactical strategy or technique,” Thelin added.
“It’s passion. It’s desire to win a competition or a game. That is missing right now, and the players need to take responsibility.”

Fans Frustrated and Searching for Answers

Aberdeen supporters are increasingly vocal about the team’s lack of fight and cohesion. Thelin’s call for introspection is aimed at restoring not just results, but also team spirit, unity, and the pride of playing for the club and traveling fans.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Jimmy Thelin and his Aberdeen squad to see if they can reverse their poor run of form, restore confidence, and climb the Scottish Championship table before relegation threats re-emerge.