Junior Hoilett has joined Aberdeen on a short-term deal until the end of the season, reuniting with his former manager Neil Warnock. The 33-year-old winger, who has 62 caps for Canada, was a free agent after leaving Vancouver Whitecaps in the Major League Soccer (MLS).
Hoilett has played under Warnock at Queens Park Rangers and Cardiff City, and was eager to work with him again at the Scottish Premiership club. He said it was “a no brainer” to accept the offer from the Dons, who are currently fourth in the table.
“I’ve worked with the gaffer before so I know what he expects from me and the team. He knows how to get the best out of the squad and I’m happy to be part of it,” Hoilett told the club’s official website.
A boost for the Dons’ attack
Hoilett brings a wealth of experience and quality to Aberdeen’s attack, which has struggled to score goals this season. The Dons have netted only 25 times in 24 league games, the lowest among the top six teams.
Hoilett, who can play on either flank or as a second striker, has scored 67 goals and provided 51 assists in his club career, which started at Blackburn Rovers in 2009. He has also featured in the English Premier League, the Championship, and the Bundesliga.
Warnock praised Hoilett’s versatility and impact, saying: “He’s an international player and I think he’ll benefit the squad between now and the end of the season. He can play in different positions and he’s got a good eye for goal. He’s also a great lad to have around the dressing room.”
A World Cup dream for Hoilett
Hoilett is also hoping to help his national team qualify for the World Cup in 2026, which will be co-hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico. He was part of the Canada squad that reached the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where they lost to eventual champions France.
Hoilett said he still has “a lot of fire” in him for the game, and wants to enjoy playing football again. He said he had been keeping fit by training with Reading, and was waiting for the right opportunity to come along.
“I still have a lot of ambition and I want to play at the highest level possible. The World Cup in 2026 is a big target for me and for Canada, and I want to be ready for that. Playing for Aberdeen is a great challenge and I’m looking forward to it.”
Hoilett could make his debut for Aberdeen on Saturday, when they host Hibernian at Pittodrie. The Dons are aiming to close the gap with third-placed Hibs, who are six points ahead of them with a game in hand.
