The 2009-10 campaign was ultimately a disappointing one for Aberdeen as The Dons slumped to a 9th-place finish in the Scottish Premier League, failing to reach the top six for the first time in six seasons. Steven MacLean topped the league scoring chart with just five goals in a campaign that marked a turbulent start under new manager Mark McGhee. Despite isolated moments of drama, like an upset victory against rivals Rangers, the year was dominated by inconsistency and a humiliating early exit from the newly branded Europa League. It was a season of frustration that highlighted the deep-seated issues that needed fixing at Pittodrie.