Brentford's High-Flying Ambitions: Can They Replicate Last Season's Su

Brentford's 2025-26 season ended in disappointment, but the club's upward trajectory remains strong. With a new season on the horizon, we take a closer look at the Bees' prospects and the key factors that will determine their success.

A Season of Disappointment

Last season's campaign ended with a draw at Anfield, denying Brentford a chance to secure European football. The club's ninth-place finish was a disappointment, especially considering the upward trajectory they had established. However, the lack of European football may prove to be a blessing in disguise, as smaller clubs are often stretched by the heavier schedule and financial demands of continental competition.

Igor Thiago: The Star Striker

Igor Thiago was the star of the show last season, scoring 22 goals in the Premier League. His impressive form earned him a spot in the Brazil World Cup squad, but he struggled to replicate his form in the latter stages of the tournament. Thiago will be looking to build on his impressive debut season, and with the experience of Callum Wilson and the arrival of Jaidon Anthony, he will have the support he needs to succeed.

A New Era for Brentford

The loss of Jordan Henderson to Chelsea will be felt, but his leadership qualities will be missed more than his playing influence. Henderson started 22 matches last season, and his departure will give younger players the opportunity to step up and take on more responsibility. Keith Andrews, the new manager, has shown that he is more than just a set-piece specialist, and he will be looking to prove that his success last season was not just beginners' luck.

Mamadou Sangaré: The Midfield Maestro

Brentford's midfield has lost Christian Nørgaard over the last two summers, but the arrival of Mamadou Sangaré will offer different strengths. Sangaré was named in the Ligue 1 team of the season last year, and his ability to press high and win the ball back will be a valuable asset to the team. With Opta stats showing that only Elliot Anderson and Exequiel Palacios averaged more possession regains in Europe's top five leagues, Sangaré is the perfect signing to fill the void left by Nørgaard.

Set-Piece Success

Brentford scored 10 set-play goals last season, but they were also reliant on free-kicks, corners, and throw-ins to generate shots. The club needs to be more productive in open play or more efficient with their set pieces. With the arrival of Kaye Furo, who made his debut in the FA Cup, Brentford's set-piece success may be on the up.

World Cup Impact

The World Cup had a significant impact on Brentford's players, with Kristoffer Ajer's header hitting the crossbar in the quarter-finals. Ajer's Norway team pulled off an historic victory over Brazil, where Thiago was an unused substitute. Aaron Hickey's participation was brief, but he will be looking to make a bigger impact this season.

Conclusion

Brentford's prospects for the new season are strong, but there are challenges to overcome. The club needs to be more productive in open play and more efficient with their set pieces. With the arrival of Mamadou Sangaré and the experience of Callum Wilson, Igor Thiago will have the support he needs to succeed. The new season will be a test of Brentford's ambition, but with the right mindset and a bit of luck, they can replicate last season's success and push for European football.