Aberdeen Football Club has officially signed Mats Knoester, marking the 26-year-old Dutch defender as their fifth recruit during this January transfer window. Arriving at Pittodrie from Hungarian side Ferencvaros on a two-and-a-half-year contract, with the option for another year, Knoester is set to strengthen the Dons' defensive line.
"Mats has a really strong pedigree," said Aberdeen's manager Jimmy Thelin, emphasizing the player's solid football education from his years at Feyenoord and his experience playing in European competitions. Thelin noted, "His arrival will assist us defensively, providing reinforcements as a left-sided centre-half, and it is clear he is really excited about this new challenge in his career."
Knoester, who began his professional career at Feyenoord before moving to Heracles and then to Ferencvaros, has enjoyed success abroad, including winning the Hungarian league title last season. He also carried out a loan stint at Danish club Aarhus Gymnastikforening (AGF) where he faced challenges, including recovering from an ankle injury but still managed to play in the Danish Cup final.
Speaking about his decision to join Aberdeen, Knoester stated, "I had other options but when I knew Aberdeen were interested, I wanted to come here. I was already aware of the club and how big it was, and as soon as I arrived, I could see how professional the environment is. I am looking forward to this challenge, in a good league, where football is deep in the culture."
The defender revealed how former Aberdeen player Stefan Gartenmann influenced his decision to make the move to the Granite City. Having been teammates at Ferencvaros, Gartenmann provided Knoester with positive insights about life and football at Aberdeen. Knoester reflected, "He texted me because he heard about the interest. I asked him how it is there, how is life, how is the club? He didn’t say anything bad about it."
Despite the Dons' current struggles, having not won any of their last 14 league games, they remain just two points behind third place. Knowing this situation, Knoester expressed his eagerness to make an impact, stating, "I hope to add my experience of playing in European games and get more of those here. I played in Europe before, but I am looking forward to the future; we want to play at this level with Aberdeen too."
Thelin's strategy seems clear as he continues to rebuild his team, having already brought on board Krister Tobers, Alfie Dorrington, and Alexander Jensen during this window. Knoester’s focus is also on contributing to the team’s philosophy of playing from the back. "I am Dutch. The Dutch football school is building up from the back. I’m left-footed, which is advantageous for playing on the left side. I try to get the passes through. My left foot is decent. Defending-wise, I am pretty physical," Knoester assured fans.
Notably, the recent unrest among players and disappointing results have made this recruitment all the more significant. Thelin is banking on Knoester's arrival to help stabilize the team's defensive unit. "When I saw some clips from Aberdeen, I noticed they were trying to play from behind and not just put the ball long. I think it is a good fit," he commented, shedding light on his tactical expectations.
On his aspirations, Knoester stated, "I’m ambitious and ready for what’s coming. I’ve learned a lot from playing in different countries and leagues." The hope is to find stability not just for himself as he integrates with the club but also for his family. He expressed the desire to make Aberdeen his home, remarking on the importance of finding a place to settle at this point in his career.
With his wealth of experience, including participation in the Champions League and Europa League, Knoester aims to utilize his skills effectively at Aberdeen, contributing to their ambitions for European football. He concluded, "There’s some history here with Dutch players, and I know if I leave a good impression I will be remembered. I am here to make my mark and help the team achieve their goals."
Aberdeen fans are hopeful this change will mark the beginning of brighter days, as the club continues its quest to reclaim its stature within Scottish football. With new faces on board, there is optimism for the remainder of the season, as the Dons prepare for their next matches with renewed spirit and determination.