Aberdeen: Mario Frick is new head coach at Pittodrie

Mario Frick has been announced as the new head coach of Aberdeen, taking over from the sacked Stephen Robinson.

Capped 125 times as a striker for Liechtenstein, the 52-year-old was last in charge at Luzern, leaving the Swiss club after five years in the summer.

“Throughout our discussions, he demonstrated a clear vision, strong leadership qualities and a deep understanding of what is required to build a successful team,” said Pittodrie chief executive Adrian Bevington.

“He was also exceptionally well regarded by the many people across the game we consulted during the process, and the board was unanimous in its belief that he is the right person to lead Aberdeen Football Club forward.”

Frick, who also managed Vaduz in the Swiss Super League, will be assisted by Roman Matter.

Former Motherwell and St Mirren boss Robinson was dismissed on 9 November, with Aberdeen second bottom of the Scottish Premiership.

Frick is the seventh permanent manager since Dave Cormack took control of the club in November 2019.

As a player, his former clubs include FC Basel, FC Zurich, St. Gallen and Grasshopper, while his 16 international goals make him Liechtenstein’s all-time top scorer.

“Mario is a strong personality with clear ideas about how he wants his teams to play,” added sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel.

“He brings energy, ambition and a winning mentality, and knows how to build a strong team environment.

“We were looking for the right person to lead the next chapter of Aberdeen FC, and I’m convinced Mario has the qualities, character and vision to make a real impact.”