Aberdeen FC have lost a key figure as former director of football Steven Gunn announced his departure to become director of football at Eredivisie side ADO Den Haag. The 25‑year veteran left Pittodrie last year and today confirmed the Dutch appointment on LinkedIn.

What prompted the surprise exit?

Gunn’s exit shocked the Dons when it was announced last season, given his quarter‑century of service in roles ranging from scouting to senior recruitment. After a brief period of unemployment, the Dutch club approached him, offering a chance to shape a team that just secured promotion back to the Eredivisie. He highlighted the club’s sold‑out 2026/27 season tickets and a new training‑centre as key attractions.

How does this affect Aberdeen FC’s future?

Losing a recruitment chief with Gunn’s network could tighten Aberdeen’s ability to spot talent, especially as the club sits 8th in the Premiership with 33 points, a record of 9W‑6D‑18L from 33 games and recent form LLWDW. The Dons have scored 33 goals while conceding 48, leaving them 15 goals behind the league leaders. Re‑building the scouting pipeline will now fall to the incoming staff, who must operate with a budget already stretched by the club’s mid‑table position.

What will Gunn bring to ADO Den Haag?

Gunn praised ADO’s ambition, noting the club’s catch‑area of over one million fans and a clear pathway for academy talent. He will work alongside technical director Mark Wotte, a former Scottish FA performance director, whose relationship with Gunn dates back 15 years. Together they aim to cement the club’s Eredivisie status and push for European qualification.

What’s next for both clubs?

Aberdeen FC must act quickly to fill the recruitment void, likely promoting from within or seeking an external candidate with similar Dutch connections. Meanwhile, Gunn’s first task at ADO Den Haag will be to integrate his scouting philosophy into a squad that just earned promotion, ensuring the club can sustain its top‑flight status. Fans of both sides will be watching closely as these parallel rebuilds unfold.

Current context for Aberdeen FC

As of today, Aberdeen FC sit 8th in the Premiership, 33 points behind the leaders, with a goal difference of –15. The club’s recent form of LLWDW underscores the urgency of stabilising the backroom staff and improving results on the pitch.