The Dons have yet to make a final decision where to build the new ground. The club is still examining two potential locations. What's more, it is very likely that the size of the new venue will be reduced.

At the time of the presentation of the Kingsford Stadium design in 2016, there was talk of building a venue with a capacity of 20,000. However, it turns out that the club has decided to change its plans.

A few days ago, chairman Dave Cormack announced that the ground would most likely have 16,000-17,000 seats. The reduction in the size of the auditorium is expected to save £16 million.

It is also a consequence of the recent decline in attendance at Pittodrie Stadium that is rarely packed, usually only during games against Celtic, Rangers and in European competitions. Cormack also presented data that 30% of season ticket holders do not show up each week.

© Aberdeen FC

This additionally confirms his belief that it is right to reduce the capacity of the planned arena. Cormack thinks there is no good reason to spend an extra £16 million to increase capacity by 4,000 and go to 20,000. This is roughly the current size of Pittodrie Stadium where the Dons want to play for the next four years or less.

Moving to the new facility will take place no earlier than before the 2025/26 season. The goal of the club's board of directors is to get 15,000 season ticket holders, although Dave Cormack realises that not always this number of supporters will turn up at the stadium despite purchasing tickets.

It is not known yet where the new arena will be built. The club has planning permission to build a stadium next to its training ground at Kingsford. However, Aberdeen City Council made a proposal to create a stadium next to the Beach Ballroom.

It is just 1000 yards from the current facility. Aberdeen FC will probably have to collect the funds for the investment from external sources. At the moment, the club is working on a business model for financing the project.

Author: Tomasz Sobura