Aberdeen captain Graeme Shinnie will leave the club next month following the expiration of his contract, bringing an emotional end to his memorable spell at Pittodrie.
The 34-year-old departs after making 344 appearances for the Dons and cementing his legacy by becoming the first Aberdeen captain in 35 years to lift the Scottish Cup last May.
Despite the club offering Shinnie a new two-year contract extension, the veteran midfielder has decided to move on from Aberdeen ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
According to reports, Aberdeen’s proposal included more than just playing opportunities.
The Scottish Premiership side confirmed the package featured what they described as “a meaningful pathway into coaching and wider non-playing responsibilities,” alongside the possibility of a testimonial season.
However, Shinnie has chosen a different direction as discussions continue over a potential return to Inverness Caledonian Thistle.
As previously reported, Shinnie remains in advanced talks with Inverness CT — the club where he spent six successful years before joining Aberdeen.
During his first spell with Inverness, Shinnie helped the Highland side secure a historic Scottish Cup triumph in 2015 before earning his move to the Dons.
A return to Inverness would mark a full-circle moment in the midfielder’s career as he prepares for the next chapter both on and off the pitch.
Shinnie’s departure closes the curtain on one of Aberdeen’s most influential modern careers.
Known for his leadership, consistency, and fierce commitment, the midfielder became a fan favourite across two spells with the club and played a key role in restoring silverware success to Pittodrie.
His next destination now appears increasingly likely to be Inverness, where another important chapter of his career first began.
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