The City Ground Set for Nottingham Forest v Brentford Showdown to Open Premier League Season

The City Ground will host the first Premier League matchday of the season for Nottingham Forest and Brentford, with both sides eager to set the tone for their 2025/26 campaigns.

In their last six Premier League meetings, Brentford have had the upper hand, winning three times compared to Forest’s single victory, with two draws in that period. The Bees’ record will give them confidence, but opening-day football often throws the form book out the window.

This summer has brought significant changes at both clubs. Brentford have undergone a shake-up at the top, with a new manager and backroom staff taking charge. They have also lost key players, including Bryan Mbeumo and Mark Flekken. To fill the gaps, the Bees have signed goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher from Liverpool for £12.5 million and secured forward Dango Ouattara from Bournemouth in a deal worth £37 million.

How quickly the new arrivals settle in could be crucial for Brentford’s start to the season.

Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, faced a blow with the high-profile departure of Anthony Elanga to Newcastle United. Replacing his pace and creativity will be a challenge for Nuno Espírito Santo’s side. Despite this, Forest have reinforced their squad with ambitious signings. James McAtee, a 22-year-old attacking midfielder, arrives from Manchester City in a deal potentially worth £30 million, including add-ons, a sell-on clause, and a buy-back option.

Omari Hutchinson, a dynamic winger from Ipswich Town, adds further attacking firepower, with his transfer valued at £37.5 million. These acquisitions highlight Forest’s determination to strengthen their squad and compensate for the departures of key players.

Pre-season didn’t inspire much confidence for Forest supporters. Three draws and two defeats meant they ended their summer without a single win.

Defensive lapses and a lack of cutting edge in attack were recurring concerns.

Brentford’s warm-up games weren’t spectacular, but they were steadier.

The Bees managed one win and two draws, suggesting a more settled build-up to the new campaign.

Forest will rely heavily on the atmosphere at the City Ground to give them a lift, while Brentford will look to capitalise on any early-season rustiness from their hosts. The Bees’ recent record in this fixture and Forest’s sluggish pre-season form could tilt the balance toward the visitors, but the first game of the season is often unpredictable, and both sides will want to make a statement.