Aberdeen’s struggle with adversity: A call for resilience and improvement

Manager Jimmy Thelin emphasizes the importance of handling setbacks effectively.

Aberdeen’s struggle with adversity: A call for resilience and improvement
Aberdeen FC is currently facing a challenging period, with manager Jimmy Thelin expressing his frustration over the team’s inability to handle adversity effectively. Following a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Hibernian at Pittodrie, Thelin highlighted the need for his players to maintain composure and momentum, especially after conceding a goal.

Learning to react positively to setbacks

In the match against Hibernian, Aberdeen initially took the lead with a well-deserved goal from Topi Keskinen. However, a defensive error allowed Hibernian to equalize, leading to a collapse in the Dons’ performance.

Thelin emphasized that the team must learn to react better when faced with setbacks. “An opponent can score a goal, but we need to be much better in how we react after these situations,” he stated. This sentiment reflects a broader issue within the squad, where emotional responses can lead to a loss of focus and cohesion.

Addressing vulnerability and emotional responses

Captain Graeme Shinnie echoed Thelin’s concerns, labeling the team as vulnerable and soft in the wake of their recent performances. The defeat marked the sixth consecutive game without a win for Aberdeen, the worst run in the Premiership. Thelin noted that the emotional toll from previous matches, particularly a dramatic 3-3 draw against Hibernian last month, may have affected the players’ mindset. “We have to stay together and do the basic principles in our game and try to be more determined, instead of so emotional,” he remarked, underscoring the need for a more disciplined approach.

Focusing on improvement rather than transfers

As the January transfer window approaches, Thelin is adamant that the focus should remain on improving the current squad rather than seeking quick fixes through new signings. “I don’t think we should focus on the transfer window, because it’s our performance right now that matters,” he stated. Thelin believes that the training ground is where solutions will be found, emphasizing the importance of consistency and teamwork. “We need consistency in our games. The opponent can have momentum, but it shouldn’t hurt us so much as it does right now,” he added.

With upcoming matches against Kilmarnock and Dundee United, Thelin’s priority is clear: to instill a sense of resilience and determination within his squad. As Aberdeen seeks to turn their fortunes around, the focus will be on learning from past mistakes and fostering a stronger team dynamic.