Finishing in 9th place was poor by AIK’s standards. After all, they were champions in 2018 and came 4th in 2019. However, it could have been a lot worse as they spent 70% of the season hovering around the relegation zone.
A poor start and a 4-0 defeat from BK Hacken saw coach Norling sacked after 11 matches. Grzelak was brought in but an ugly series of defeats saw him under immediate pressure. Crucially AIK were able to make experienced signings and brought in Lustig and Rogic. A 9-match unbeaten run (W6 D3) took them to safety although they went on ‘holiday’ straight after, with only 1 point from their final 3 matches.
Goalkeepers Haugaard and Janosevic vied for the position with the latter being favoured by new coach Grzelak. Karlsson started most of the matches in defence with Kahl making his breakthrough and 26 appearances. It was also a breakthrough season for Tihi with 13 appearances. Lustig immediately claimed the left-back berth after his arrival during the transfer window.
Experienced international Larsson marshalled the midfield with Hussein and Adu regularly beside him. Rogic, like Lustig, was an immediate starter on his arrival while it was a breakthrough season for Strannegard with 12 appearances.
The veteran Goitom was the pick of the forwards with 8 goals although AIK had the 3rd worst attack in the Allsvenskan with only 30 goals scored. Sigthorsson was a disappointment and failed to score a goal.
Grzelak managed to save AIK’s season but, with changes in personnel and some ageing stars, 2021 looks uncertain for them.
