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Shinnie completes emotional return to Inverness
Graeme Shinnie will rejoin Inverness Caledonian Thistle next month after his Aberdeen contract expires, calling the move "a full-circle moment" for his career.
Historic Scottish Cup triumph with Aberdeen
The 34-year-old midfielder made history last year by becoming the first player to captain two different clubs to Scottish Cup victories. Shinnie led Aberdeen to a dramatic penalty shootout win over Celtic in May 2025, exactly a decade after lifting the trophy with Inverness against Falkirk in 2015.
His penalty in the 2025 final, struck into the top corner, sealed Aberdeen's first Scottish Cup in 35 years and cemented his legacy at Pittodrie.
Aberdeen legacy and departure
Shinnie played 344 matches for Aberdeen across two spells, ranking 20th in the club's all-time appearances list. He also featured in 32 European fixtures, placing him 12th in the club's European appearances record.
Aberdeen manager Stephen Robinson praised Shinnie as an "outstanding leader" but acknowledged the midfielder's desire for regular playing time, which the club couldn't guarantee next season. Robinson stated, "He leaves here with our sincerest thanks, admiration and very best wishes."
"His dedication, work rate and influence within the dressing room have been invaluable."
Stephen Robinson, Aberdeen manager
Career highlights and challenges
Shinnie joined Aberdeen in 2015 after leaving Inverness and enjoyed a successful first spell under Derek McInnes, featuring in multiple finals and securing top-three league finishes. He briefly left for Derby County in 2019 before returning to Aberdeen in 2023.
Despite his legendary status, Shinnie's influence waned in his final season as Aberdeen finished ninth in the Premiership. He started only half of the club's league matches, with his performance declining as age impacted his stamina.
Fan favorite and club identity
Shinnie's commitment and leadership endeared him to Aberdeen supporters. During his first spell, he formed a formidable midfield trio with Kenny McLean and Ryan Jack, helping Aberdeen challenge Celtic for domestic honors.
In recent years, he remained one of the few consistent figures amid high player turnover, providing the club with a sense of continuity and identity.
"I started my career here and have some really good memories. Now I'm back, it is a great feeling and one that I'm really excited for."
Graeme Shinnie
What's next for Shinnie
Shinnie has signed a two-year contract with Inverness, who secured promotion to the Championship after winning League One. His return marks the end of a chapter at Aberdeen but opens a new opportunity to play regularly for his hometown club.
