AIK Turns to a Familiar Face for Second Stint as Head Coach
Roger Mellin is back behind the AIK bench. The veteran coach has stepped in for the rest of the season after the termination of Markus Åkerblom. Though possibly a surprising move to some, for Mellin, it was a sentiment that resonated with him more than he first anticipated.
“We talked,” Mellin shared, “and the more we talked, the more it felt right. Of course, it wasn’t a snap decision. This wasn’t just any team. It was AIK, where I had so many great years.”
AIK Confident in Mellin’s Experience
It is true that Melin was reserved about taking on the job initially. He hasn’t been a head coach since the 2019-2020 season. Since then, he’s acted as a scout and advisor to AIK. Taking over this late in the season was not on his radar. But, knowing AIK well and having spent previous successful years there (2008-2012), he was ultimately ready to embrace the challenge.
“I feel good about the support I have from all sides,” Mellin reflected. “I know many think I’m too old for this. Maybe they’re right. It’s for half a season, we’re going to try and make the most of it.”
Building on Success, Focusing on Stability
Melin inherits a team currently ninth in the HockeyAllsvenskan standings. Following the departure of Åkerblom and considering the team’s position, restoring stability is a top priority.
”We haven’t had many wins in a good while,” Mellin said. “We need to be more consistent. Not just about wins, though. I want us to rediscover the joy of playing.”
The long-time frigure justa few daysstripped down a few days prior.
“It’s a lot of work to take over, but unfortunately the rules of the game. If you’re going into this game, you know the conditions and that performance matters.
AIK beat Östersund 4–1.
How will you leverage your past experience with AIK to guide the team towards success in this current season?
## A Familiar Face Returns: An Interview with Roger Mellin
**Welcome back to the show, Roger. AIK fans were surprised to see you return to the bench. What prompted your decision to take on this second stint as head coach?**
**Roger Mellin:** Well, it’s certainly a situation no one saw coming. [1](https://tv4se.services.tv4.se/artikel/5rmpcwiSCPG3z2uv6mgnVD/roger-melin-jag-hade-inte-tagit-oever-vilket-lag-som-helst)
I will say, when AIK approached me, I honestly wasn’t sure initially. It’s a big responsibility to step in mid-season.
But the more we talked, the more I felt it was the right thing to do. There’s a special connection with this club, with these players, and with the fans. I couldn’t just sit on the sidelines when they needed me.
**You mentioned a “special connection”. What is it about AIK that makes it so appealing for you to return?**
**Roger Mellin:** It’s a combination of factors, really. It’s a club with a rich history, passionate fans, and a drive to succeed. We share a collective determination to be at the forefront of Swedish hockey.
I have fond memories of my previous time here and have always followed their progress closely. I’m excited to be back in the fold and contribute to their future success.
**What are your immediate goals for the remainder of the season? How do you plan to navigate this challenging situation with the team?
**Roger Mellin:** Right now, the focus is on stability and a positive environment. We need to build on the strengths of the team and address areas that need improvement.
I believe in open communication and a collaborative approach. My door is always open to the players, and I want to hear their perspectives and ideas.
Together, we can ensure AIK finishes the season strong and sets the stage for a promising future.