Pressley signs new Dundee deal but warns of pain ahead

What the report says

BBC Sport Football reports that Steven Pressley has agreed a new contract to remain head coach of Dundee, saying the decision was the right one even as he warned supporters that the club faces a difficult period. Dundee have not announced the terms, though the BBC said it is understood the 52-year-old continues on a one-year rolling arrangement. Pressley took over from Tony Docherty in June 2025 and led the Dens Park side to eighth place in the Scottish Premiership last season.

Pressley said discussions over his future had been going on for some time and described the agreement as important personally as well as professionally. He has spent much of the past year living in Scotland away from his wife and family, and BBC Sport reported that his wife is now set to move back north following the deal. He also credited the support of managing director John Nelms as a significant factor in staying.

On the football side, Pressley cautioned that Dundee will need patience after losing several important players. BBC Sport noted departures including Luke Graham to Stoke City, Billy Koumetio to Charlton Athletic and goalkeeper Jon McCracken to Bradford City, while loan players such as Yan Dhanda, Cameron Congreve and Tony Yogane have returned to their parent clubs. Pressley said replacements have been brought in but will need time to adapt.

The coach pointed to Motherwell’s player development, transfer income and European qualification as a model Dundee can aspire to over time. Dundee begin their new Scottish Premiership campaign away to champions Celtic on Monday night, a fixture Pressley described as a major test but one he believes his players can meet.