Thomas Frank has raised concerns about fixture scheduling, suggesting that clubs like Arsenal, Spurs, and Liverpool have been given an easier ride in this week’s hectic schedule compared to Brentford.
Ahead of the Bees’ Carabao Cup quarter-final clash with Newcastle, Frank pointed out the disparity in turnaround times between matches, claiming Brentford and Crystal Palace face a more demanding schedule than their larger rivals.
“We and Crystal Palace are the only teams in the quarter-finals that have to play three games in seven days,” Frank said. “The other six teams, the bigger clubs, are playing in eight or nine days, which might be a coincidence? Maybe the EFL or Premier League can answer that.”
Brentford’s fixtures include Chelsea last weekend, Newcastle tonight, and Nottingham Forest on Saturday—a compact stretch Frank feels is unnecessarily gruelling.
While Frank’s frustrations are understandable, the numbers don’t entirely support his argument when Arsenal’s schedule is considered.
Mikel Arteta’s side faces three games in eight days, starting with Everton on 14 December, tonight’s Carabao Cup clash with Crystal Palace, and concluding with another meeting against the Eagles on Saturday. For Arsenal, who remain active in European competition unlike Brentford, the margin of difference hardly warrants complaint.
Brentford’s limited fixture list, largely due to their absence from Europe, provides recovery time the other clubs mentioned can only dream of. Arsenal’s packed calendar, featuring Premier League, Carabao Cup, FA Cup and Champions League commitments, leaves little room for respite.
While Frank remains focused on fielding a strong team against Newcastle, his complaints about preferential treatment seem misplaced. Clubs like Arsenal operate under intense fixture congestion almost year-round, often without such allowances.
As Brentford continues their campaign, the reality of managing a busy schedule simply reflects the demands of competitive football at the highest level.