Premier League 2026-27 preview No 4: Brentford
Brentford enter the 2026-27 Premier League season under Keith Andrews, who impressed in his first full campaign but ultimately missed out on European qualification on the final day, drawing at Anfield while Brighton lost to Manchester United. Guardian writers predict a slightly improved eighth-placed finish this season, though the club faces the challenge of replicating last term's overachievement without the leadership of Jordan Henderson, who has left for Chelsea. Striker Igor Thiago, whose prolific scoring drove much of the team's success, will be central to their hopes again despite a dip in form towards the end of last season.
Thiago scored 22 Premier League goals last season, second only to Erling Haaland, earning a World Cup call-up with Brazil, though he managed just one goal in his final six matches. Brentford have bolstered their attack with free-agent signing Callum Wilson and Jaidon Anthony from Burnley. Off the pitch, the club posted a £21m loss in the 2024-25 accounts, Thomas Frank's last season in charge, though this was offset by the sales of Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa; the club has also brought in new minority shareholders including Sir Lucian Grainge and is exploring extra revenue through live music events at the Gtech Community Stadium.
- Brentford tipped for eighth after missing Europe by one point last season
- Keith Andrews continues as manager following a strong debut campaign
- Igor Thiago's 22 goals key to hopes, bolstered by Callum Wilson's arrival
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Brentford possess strong foundations to challenge for European football. Igor Thiago remains prolific with 22 league goals, whilst quality signings in Callum Wilson and Jaidon Anthony strengthen the attack. Keith Andrews impressed in his first season, new ownership brings stability and investment, and the club has demonstrated capability at this level.
The case against
Brentford's overachievement proved unsustainable, missing European qualification on the final day. The departures of Jordan Henderson and form concerns about Igor Thiago create uncertainty, whilst a £21m loss indicates real financial constraints on squad development. New signings represent adequate rather than exceptional replacements, and whether Andrews can maintain last season's performance remains doubtful given the key losses.