Aberdeen will be rewarded with the freedom of the city alongside their Gothenburg Greats side, on the 40th anniversary of their historic European Cup Winners’ Cup triumph.
Celebrations will begin with a gala dinner on May 11th, 40 years to the day since the Dons beat Real Madrid under Sir Alex Ferguson's management in Gothenburg. There will be a special event at Pittodrie the following, at which the club and the Gothenburg Greats team will be presented with the Freedom of the City by the city's council.
A weekend of, celebration will culminate with a homecoming game on the 13th or 14th, with the SPFL confirming a post-split Premiership game on that weekend for the side currently hunting a manager after Jim Goodwin's sacking. Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack said: “Being awarded the Freedom of the City is a tremendous honour for the club and befitting of our greatest-ever team. The Gothenburg Greats have long been assured of their position as legends at the club and in the city but this special tribute further underlines their place in our history. To beat Real Madrid in a European final is an achievement that has only become increasingly impressive over the course of time.
"Winning the Cup Winners’ Cup and European Super Cup in 1983 was inspirational for the club and city; something that we should remember and cherish. This weekend of celebrations will allow our supporters to share in recognising these players and in celebrating with them.”
Willie Miller was captain at the Ullevi Stadium and said: “It is difficult to believe that four decades have passed since that night in Gothenburg. We were all incredibly fortunate to be part of such great team and are honoured and humbled, in equal measure, by the celebratory events to commemorate our success being laid on by both the club and the city.
“It will be an emotional weekend where we can reflect on what we achieved and mark what is still one of the best nights of our lives.”
Aberdeen Lord Provost Dr David Cameron added: “I very much look forward to presenting the club and the Gothenburg Greats with the Freedom on the City. The club, with its rich history, and the European Cup Winners’ Cup team, with their giant-beating performances, have long been an inspiration for the whole city.
“The Dons’ work within our local communities has also helped bring people together. The event in May promises to have all the excitement and sense of team spirit of the best football matches.”
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