Reviewing 2025/26

Thomas Frank left in pre season and went to Spurs. Mbeumo went to Manchester United. Flekken left for Leverkusen. Wissa to Newcastle. The Bees then hired inexperienced Keith Andrews as manager. The warning signs were all there. I predicted them to just avoid relegation. As did many others.

They finished a very comfortable 9th, with a big middle finger salute to the doubters, having never threatened relegation and actually sitting 5th as 2025 became 2026. Igor Thiago scored 22 goals and Caoimhin Kelleher was every bit the competent goalkeeper he always looked at Liverpool, making their decision to sell him look all the more questionable.

Looking ahead to 2026/27

Missing out on European football might just be the best thing that could have happened to the Bees. I get that sounds stupid, but hear me out. This is a strong division in 26/27. The promoted teams will all be putting up a good fight to stay in the top flight and with similar level teams having to deal with the extra stress that midweek trips to Baku or similar brings, the fresh legs Brentford will be bringing to weekend games will be vital.

Jannik Schuster arrives from Salzburg for £15m, whilst raids on rleegated clubs Burnley and West Ham yielded Jaidon Anthony and Callum Wilson respectively. Wilson, if he can stay fit, is such a good addition to any squad. Half hour off the bench in hopes of a late winner or equaliser. He's exactly what they need to back up Igor Thaigo.

Court Offside Tip

I've got Brentford finishing 9th and I fully expect a bit of a free for all in the middle ranks towards the end of the season. You could end up with 6 or 7 teams all seperated by a couple of points. I don't foresee European qualification so any bets will need to be based on how they begin the new campaign. One to re-assess in January I feel.