Aberdeen hire Lutz Pfannenstiel, who ‘died’, stole a penguin, and was jailed in Singapore, as sporting director

Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack claims Lutz Pfannenstiel can be the catalyst for success for the Dons after making Pittodrie the latest stop in the German’s extraordinary football career.

The 52-year-old will join Aberdeen next month as sporting director after a similar post with Major League Soccer side St Louis City ended in August.

Pfannenstiel had a uniquely eventful playing career which saw him become the first man to play for clubs in all six FIFA confederations. He represented 25 clubs in all, including Nottingham Forest, Wimbledon and Huddersfield.

The goalkeeper spent 101 days in a Singapore prison after being found guilty of match-fixing charges in 2000 but protests his innocence.

The former German youth international stopped breathing three times while playing for Bradford Park Avenue in the Northern Premier League in 2002 following a collision with Clayton Donaldson, who later played for Hibernian. He was resuscitated on the pitch.

Pfannenstiel has detailed other episodes in his playing career in his autobiography, including modelling for Armani and “borrowing” a penguin from a wildlife colony and keeping it in his bath for two days in New Zealand.

His playing career spanned 13 countries including Malaysia, Brazil, South Africa, Canada, Namibia, Armenia and Albania.

Since hanging up his gloves, he has worked as a TV pundit in Germany, set up a charity to campaign on climate change awareness, and worked for a number of clubs in recruitment and scouting.

Pfannenstiel had senior roles with Fortuna Dusseldorf and Hoffenheim, where he was credited for playing a key role in the recruitment of players such as Roberto Firmino and Joelinton.

He moved to St Louis in 2020 and oversaw major development of the club, who became the first MLS newcomers to win a conference title in 2023. He left in August amid criticism of head coach appointments.

Cormack said on Aberdeen’s official website: “We are pleased to welcome Lutz and his significant experience to Pittodrie.

“With extensive coaching, scouting, young player development and leadership expertise gained across different roles and cultures, we believe Lutz will be a catalyst in the club’s quest to deliver its football aspirations over the next few years.

“In particular, his technical knowledge, academy development experience and global recruitment network were key factors in the board selecting him for this critical role, as we strive to align consistent on-field success with our player-development model.”

Cormack added that the German would be responsible for “all football and performance areas”.

Pfannenstiel added: “Aberdeen FC has what many clubs around the world can only dream of – that is rich tradition, a storied history and a true football soul.

“I look forward to bringing my depth of experience in football to a Scottish city and region that lives for the game and look forward to being an active part of this great community.”