Former Brentford and Nigeria international Sam Sodje has dismissed suggestions that the Bees will be involved in a relegation battle during the 2025/26 Premier League season.
Brentford endured a turbulent summer window, losing head coach Thomas Frank to Tottenham and several key players, including top scorer Bryan Mbeumo to Manchester United, goalkeeper Mark Flekken to Bayer Leverkusen, captain Christian Nørgaard to Arsenal, and defender Mads Roerslev to Southampton.
Veteran defender Ben Mee also departed following the expiration of his contract.
Despite the exodus, Sodje insists the club remains well structured and prepared to withstand the challenges ahead.
“When you want to define a club being run properly, Brentford should be up there. The club is properly run. I am very close with them.
“I still go to watch their games. Believe it or not, they won’t go down. They know what they need to stay in the Premier League, regardless of the players leaving. They develop good players and have held on to some important ones,” Sodje told Brila.net.
Meanwhile, the former defender, who made his breakthrough at Brentford before moving to the Premier League, admitted that the Bees will always have a special place in his heart.
“My first club was Brentford, and because I started there, I got my big move to the Premier League. I am still close to the other clubs I played for, but Brentford will always be number one for me,” he said.
Speaking on the uncertainty surrounding Yoane Wissa’s future, Sodje said the player’s desire to seek a new challenge is valid but urged professionalism.
“As an ex-player, I understand him. Players come and go, and if we lose him, it will be a big blow. But the club will continue. There are just ways you should handle it when you want to leave,” he explained.
Brentford have moved to reinforce their squad with the signings of experienced midfielder Jordan Henderson from Ajax.
The Bees also acquired winger Dango Ouattara from Bournemouth, goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher from Liverpool, and forward Michael Kayode from Fiorentina, with more additions expected before the transfer window closes.
