Football Season Guide

Undefeated at home last season, AIK lost the title on goal difference to Malmo. Four narrow defeats in the closing 10 fixtures proved decisive, although they still had the best defence in the Allsvenskan with only 25 goals conceded. A mixed start had them in 6th place after 9 fixtures but an unbeaten run of 11 matches brought them into serious title contention. Despite closing the season with 4 consecutive wins Malmo just held onto their title. Veteran striker and club captain Goitom has retired. Last season’s starting regulars Ofori, Rogic and Radulovic have surprisingly headed out on loan. Saku Ylatupa has moved to newly promoted GIF Sundsvall, with a few fringe players also heading out on loan. AIK have made few signings, but midfielder Jesper Ceesay has joined from IF Brommapojkarna after 2 successful seasons. Youthful prospects Bonde, Meja and Mendes have signed bringing the average age of the squad down. Teenage prospect Strannergard also returns to AIK after a loan spell at Vasalunds. The vastly experienced core of AIK remains in place: Nordfeldt, Milosevic, Lustig, Larsson and Bahoui. If these players can defy their years and remain fit and in form, then another title challenge is possible. However, they don’t appear to have strengthened after last season’s success.