Sepp van den Berg Reflects on Positive Brentford Pre-Season Camp | OneFootball

Fresh Faces, Familiar Voices: Van den Berg Reflects on Brentford’s Positive Pre-Season Progress

New Era Under Keith Andrews Begins with Promise

Brentford’s pre-season preparation in Portugal may not have garnered major headlines, but it is proving quietly transformative behind the scenes. Defender Sepp van den Berg’s reflections, shared in an official interview with Brentfordfc.com, offer a glimpse into a squad recalibrating under new leadership while building momentum for the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.

“It’s been different, of course. There’s a new manager with Keith coming in but it’s been good,” said Van den Berg, the 23-year-old Dutchman who is no stranger to adapting across clubs and continents. He speaks with the calm of someone who has already bought into Andrews’ methods, along with those of new first-team coaches Mehmet Ali and Martin Drury.

Photo: IMAGO

“It’s not a big change but there are two new faces… They’ve been very impressive so far,” he said, underlining a measured but confident adjustment.

Work Ethic, Chemistry and a Hint of Sunshine

Brentford’s 1-1 draw with Gil Vicente may not turn heads in isolation, but Van den Berg’s remarks reveal the value of the 10-day Portugal camp as more than just match fitness. This is a team, he insists, leaning into the grind.

“Training has been hard, and the weather has been nice, so I think it’s everything you can ask for.”

He is clearly relishing the environment. “I think we’re a very good group as players together so we’re enjoying the hard work. You have to embrace it and enjoy it.”

Summer Signings Making Early Impact

The transition to a post-Flekken squad is being eased by new blood. Caoimhín Kelleher, Jordan Henderson and Antoni Milambo are beginning to integrate, all under the watchful eye of a settled core.

“There’s been some new faces with the players as well,” Van den Berg observed. “It’s very nice for them to get integrated into the group. The guys that have come in are quality.”

Van den Berg’s personal connections to Kelleher and Henderson from their Liverpool days – and a family link to Milambo – make the arrivals even more relevant.

“Antoni actually played with my little brother [Middlesbrough defender Rav van den Berg]… he’s a nice guy and a very good player. When I heard he was joining, I was happy.”

Brentford B and the Future Pipeline

Training sessions have included a healthy dose of Brentford B involvement, a hallmark of the club’s ethos. Van den Berg has taken note: “They’re very impressive and I have to say the young guys coming in for training have been very good.”

This balance of experience and youth could yet be Brentford’s secret weapon in a season shaped by subtle recalibration rather than a drastic overhaul.

Our View – EPL Index

There is a growing sense of excitement buzzing around Brentford right now. Keith Andrews might not have arrived with fireworks, but what we’re seeing is calm authority, tactical clarity and the sort of smart, detailed pre-season preparation that builds strong campaigns. Sepp van den Berg’s comments hit all the right notes – hard work, good vibes, no drama. That’s a recipe Brentford fans can get behind.

The signings are also impressive. Kelleher finally gets the chance to be a Premier League number one, Milambo is a huge talent with pedigree from the Dutch youth system, and Henderson brings a serial winner’s mindset to a dressing room that has grown organically. Van den Berg clearly rates them, and as a fan, that’s encouraging to hear.

It also matters that Brentford B players are getting minutes and opportunities. This club thrives on developing its own, and hearing they’re doing well in training adds an extra layer of excitement.

If Andrews can knit this group together quickly and get results early, Brentford could be looking at another season defying expectations. Optimism is well placed.