Aberdeen announce Graeme Shinnie will leave Pittodrie

Captain Graeme Shinnie has decided to leave Aberdeen in search of more regular game time.

The 34-year-old, who skippered the Dons to Scottish Cup glory a year ago, was given the chance to remain at Pittodrie.

However, recently-appointed manager Stephen Robinson was unable to give Shinnie assurances that he would play as often as he would like.

Graeme Shinnie is leaving Aberdeen. | SNS Group

The former Derby and Wigan midfielder, who has amassed 344 appearances over his two spells with the Dons, has been linked with a return to first club Inverness.

“Graeme was offered a two-year contract extension to remain at Pittodrie, including a meaningful pathway into coaching and wider non-playing responsibilities that would have taken him through to a testimonial season,” Aberdeen said in a statement.

“However, after discussions with the club, Graeme has chosen to pursue the next stage of his career elsewhere.”

Shinnie first played for Aberdeen between 2015 and 2019 and then returned to Pittodrie in 2023 after a stint in England.

“Graeme has been an outstanding leader for Aberdeen Football Club,” added manager Robinson.

“His dedication, work rate and influence within the dressing room have been invaluable and he has captained this Club with distinction.

“We understand his desire to continue playing regularly, something I could not guarantee going into next season.

“It goes without saying that he leaves here with our sincerest thanks, admiration and very best wishes for the future.”

Sign up for The Scotsman's World Cup newsletter - full details here