Aberdeen's managerial search has taken an interesting turn. German coach Sandro Schwarz has landed in Scotland and is set for talks about becoming the next Dons boss.
The 47-year-old arrived in Aberdeen on Wednesday and will meet with the club's top brass. He's also getting a front-row seat to watch the Dons take on Celtic at Pittodrie tonight. It's essentially a live audition as Aberdeen desperately try to sort out their managerial situation.
Here's the thing though - Schwarz isn't actually Aberdeen's first choice. Norwegian manager Eirik Horneland remains the club's top target. But that deal has hit some serious complications due to what the club is calling 'unforeseen circumstances' that aren't football-related.
Why Aberdeen Need a Backup Plan
The Horneland situation could still be resolved, but nobody knows when. Aberdeen can't afford to wait indefinitely, especially with their season hanging in the balance. Their top six hopes are basically dead, and they've got a crucial Scottish Cup tie against Dunfermline coming up on Saturday.
Schwarz comes with decent experience, having managed clubs across Germany, Russia, and most recently New York Red Bulls in MLS. Sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel knows him well from their time in the Bundesliga and MLS. Pfannenstiel's St Louis City actually competed against Schwarz's Red Bulls.
But let's be honest about the numbers - they're not exactly inspiring. Schwarz's win rate sits just over 40% from his time at the top level, particularly during his spell at Dynamo Moscow. He's managed Hertha Berlin, Mainz, and several other clubs, but hasn't exactly set the world on fire.
What This Means for the Dons
Aberdeen have been in limbo since sacking Jimmy Thelin in January. Peter Leven has done his best as interim boss, but the team has struggled badly. There have been major squad changes, and the new players haven't gelled yet.
If Aberdeen decide to wait until summer for Horneland, that could bring Uwe Rosler back into the picture. The German is currently at VFL Bochum and was originally top of Pfannenstiel's wishlist. But waiting that long is a massive gamble when you're trying to salvage something from this season.
For punters looking at tonight's Celtic match, Aberdeen's uncertainty isn't exactly confidence-inspiring. The Bhoys will fancy their chances against a side in complete disarray off the pitch. The Dons desperately need stability, and they need it fast.
