Matchdays 20 and 21

Matchday 20 – Falkirk / Matchday 21 – Rangers

56

Happy New Year, Red Army. If you were hoping for a gentle ease into 2026, the club had other ideas.

On the latest edition of the AFC DONScast, we are dissecting a massive week of upheaval at Pittodrie. Less than 48 hours after a dismal 1-0 defeat to Falkirk left us languishing in 8th place, the news broke: Jimmy Thelin has been relieved of his duties.

The “Investment” Debate

In this episode, we take a magnifying glass to the official club statement. One line, in particular, stands out: the Board’s assertion that league results have not been “commensurate with the significant investment made.”

Is this a fair critique of the manager, or a deflection from a recruitment team that handed Thelin “projects” rather than ready-made SPFL quality? We discuss the disconnect between the dugout and the boardroom that seems to have plagued the first half of this season.

Match Reaction: Falkirk & Rangers

Thelin’s credit in the bank from the 2025 Scottish Cup win finally ran out at the Falkirk Stadium, where the performance was defined by apathy rather than anger.

We also cover the immediate aftermath—Peter Leven’s third stint as interim manager and the 2-0 defeat to Rangers at Ibrox. While the effort was there, familiar failings at set-pieces cost us dearly.

What Happens Next?

With Sporting Director Lutz Pfannenstiel leading the search, reports suggest the club is looking for a “long-term strategist” rather than a quick firefighter. We discuss what this means for the rest of the season and the potential candidates.

Also on the show:

  • Transfer News: Alfie Dorrington recalled by Spurs and the fight to keep Jesper Karlsson.

  • Women’s Team: Alix Mendez departs.

  • SPFL Round-up: Hearts go top as Rangers stun Celtic (and end Wilfred Nancy’s short reign).

Listen to the full episode below or on your favorite podcast app.

AFC DONScast

AFC DONScast