Brentford Coach Explains Frank Onyeka Loan Move to Coventry City
Brentford head coach Keith Andrews has explained why the club allowed Nigerian midfielder Frank Onyeka to join Coventry City on loan.
Andrews said the decision was taken because Onyeka needed regular playing time after struggling for minutes over the past two seasons. The Super Eagles star completed a deadline-day loan move to Coventry City, who are currently top of the Championship.
The loan deal runs until the end of the 2025–26 season and includes an agreement that Coventry will sign Onyeka permanently if they gain promotion to the Premier League.
Onyeka joined Brentford from Danish club Midtjylland in July 2021 for about €10 million, making him the club’s most expensive signing at the time. He was also Brentford’s first signing after their promotion to the Premier League and played a key role in his first season as the club finished 13th.
In total, the 27-year-old made 87 appearances for Brentford in all competitions and was part of the team that finished ninth in the 2022–23 season, the club’s best-ever Premier League finish.
Speaking on Onyeka’s departure, Andrews praised the midfielder’s attitude and contribution to the club.
He said Onyeka had been an important part of Brentford’s journey but admitted the player did not get as much game time as he wanted. Andrews added that allowing him to move was the right decision and wished him success at his new club.
Before moving to England, Onyeka enjoyed success at Midtjylland, where he won two league titles and the Danish Cup, while also gaining experience in European competitions. He also spent last season on loan at Augsburg in Germany, making 31 Bundesliga appearances.
At international level, Onyeka has made 41 appearances for Nigeria and was part of the Super Eagles squad that finished third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
With Coventry City pushing for promotion, Onyeka will now hope regular football in the Championship helps him revive his Premier League ambitions.
