After six transformative years in charge – taking the Bees from Championship hopefuls to a stable Premier League side – Frank’s exit leaves a void that could prove difficult to fill.
Keith Andrews, formerly the set-piece coach, steps up as manager to maintain continuity – though he lacks experience at this level. He takes over a reshaped squad following major departures, including Bryan Mbeumo (Manchester United), Christian Norgaard (Arsenal) and Mark Flekken (Bayern Munich) – stripping the team of its core.
New arrivals include goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher (Liverpool), promising midfielder Antoni Milambo (Feyenoord), and most notably veteran leader Jordan Henderson (from Ajax).
Brentford fixtures 2025:
August 17: Nottingham Forest v Brentford
August 23: Brentford v Aston Villa
August 30: Sunderland v Brentford
September 13: Brentford v Chelsea
September 20: Fulham v Brentford
Brentford begin the season with a tricky away fixture at Nottingham Forest, where they won 2–0 last season. It promises to be a competitive clash between two sides with European aspirations.
A week later, they return to the Gtech Community Stadium to face Aston Villa—a team they haven’t beaten in their last six meetings.
The Bees then travel to newly promoted Sunderland for their first-ever Premier League encounter. The Stadium of Light’s intense atmosphere will be a test of composure for Andrews’ side.
Following the international break, Brentford host Chelsea in a West London derby. Having lost just once in their last seven meetings with the Blues, including three wins, they’ll be optimistic.
They stay local the following week with a short trip to Fulham. After being beaten twice by the Cottagers last season, Brentford will be eager to set the record straight.
Andrews has said pre-season that he is confident his side can cope with the transition following the departure of Frank and some key players.
“This is a club that thrives on identity, work rate, and togetherness. If we stick to that, we can weather the change and compete,” said Andrews.
But with the Premier League more competitive than ever, survival – not a top-half finish – may now be the primary goal for Brentford in the post-Frank era.
Brentford standings – Historic log positions
2020/21 – 3rd (Championship)
2021/22 – 13th
2022/23 – 9th
2023/24 – 16th
2024/25 – 10th
