Queens Park Rangers, commonly known as QPR, has been a significant name in English football for decades. Based in West London, the club has a rich history and currently competes in the EFL Championship. The 2025 season has brought a mix of transformation, challenges, and optimism for the Hoops and their passionate supporters.
The Current State of QPR in 2025
In the 2025–26 season, QPR marked their 144th year in existence and their eleventh consecutive season in the Championship. Despite their ambitions, the club has faced a spotty run of results, finishing the previous season 15th in the table. Their position reflected a team in transition, grappling with strengthening squad cohesion and tactical identity under changing management.
QPR’s last season was marred by a heavy 5-0 home defeat to Burnley, highlighting defensive frailties and prompting changes in leadership. The club subsequently placed then-head coach Martí Cifuentes on gardening leave, and by June 2025, he and the club parted ways by mutual consent. The next day, Julien Stéphan was named the new head coach, tasked with steering the club towards greater stability and success.
Management and Tactical Overhaul
Martí Cifuentes brought a distinctive style based on possession and compact team organisation. He shifted QPR from a back five to a back four system, fostering better ball control and positioning. His use of inverted fullbacks and emphasis on tempo gave QPR a defined attacking blueprint. Remarkably, defender Jimmy Dunne, under Cifuentes, evolved into an attacking fullback, registering the most shots of any Championship fullback in the previous season.
Despite Cifuentes’ positive tactical input, the team struggled with consistency, culminating in his departure. New manager Julien Stéphan is expected to build upon this foundation but also imprint his philosophy. Stéphan, known for his pragmatic and meticulous approach, will likely focus on tightening defensive vulnerabilities while encouraging fluid attacking moves to reignite the Hoops’ ambitions for Championship promotion.
Squad Development and Key Transfers
The summer 2025 transfer window was a busy period for QPR, reflecting their intent to strengthen vital areas. Key signings included:
- Karamoko Dembele, who impressed in his loan spell before making the transfer permanent.
- Koki Saito, re-signed permanently from Lommel SK after a significant loan impact.
- Richard Kone, a prolific striker signed from Wycombe Wanderers, aimed at boosting the goal tally.
- Kwame Poku, a dynamic midfielder joining on a free transfer, fresh off a standout League One campaign with Peterborough United.
- Several younger players and squad depth additions like Kealey Adamson and Rumarn Burrell.
On the departure side, experienced players Kenneth Paal, Morgan Fox, and Lucas Andersen left the club. This turnover indicates a reshaping effort to align the squad more with the manager’s vision and instil fresh energy throughout the team.
Performance and League Standing
QPR’s performances in the Championship have been a mix of promising highs and disappointing lows. By the end of the 2024–25 season, the club finished 15th with 56 points. They scored 53 goals but conceded 63, reflecting issues in defensive stability. Given the competitive nature of the Championship, this placed them well clear of relegation worries but short of playoff contention.
Their average league form often oscillated, with crucial defeats at home dampening hopes. However, games against established promotion contenders showed glimpses of resilience. The team’s ability to control possession in key moments and build from the back stayed evident, even as defensive lapses would cost precious points.
Fans and Club Ambitions
QPR supporters remain fiercely loyal at Loftus Road, where atmosphere and local pride are critical. The club’s management recognises the need not only to improve league standings but also to foster a style of play that attracts fans back in numbers. The appointment of Julien Stéphan signifies that ambition, aiming to bring Premier League football back to West London in the near future.
The Hoops’ ambitions extend beyond league success; they also target strong performances in domestic cup competitions like the FA Cup and EFL Cup. These tournaments offer chances for glory and financial boosts, which are vital for a club with QPR’s heritage and growth plans.
Player Spotlight: Jimmy Dunne and Rising Talents
Jimmy Dunne has emerged as a standout player, noted for his versatility at fullback and offensive contributions. His performances garnered the club’s player of the season award, and his international debut for the Republic of Ireland in March 2025 highlighted his development. The club is keen on renewing his contract amid transfer speculation, signalling his importance in future plans.
Besides Dunne, other young players like Karamoko Dembele and Kwame Poku are poised to make significant impacts in this season. Their integration into the first team reflects QPR’s commitment to youth development combined with strategic acquisitions. This blend is seen as key to sustaining success while managing financial prudence.
Challenges Ahead
QPR faces a challenging road ahead. The Championship is known for its demanding schedule and competitive teams eager for promotion. The club needs to solve defensive consistency issues while maintaining an attacking threat.
Manager Julien Stéphan must unify the squad quickly, manage expectations, and translate tactical plans into results. Recruiting the right balance of experience and youth will be crucial. Additionally, coping with injuries and maintaining player fitness remain ongoing concerns.
Off the pitch, financial stability and enhancing fan engagement are priorities to build a platform for lasting success.
Conclusion
Queens Park Rangers continues to be a fascinating club in English football, embodying a rich past and a determined present striving for Premier League return. The 2025 season represents a transitional and potentially transformative phase for them. With new management, fresh transfers, and streaks of promising performances, QPR supporters have reasons to be hopeful.
Loftus Road remains a fortress of West London football culture, and ensuring the Hoops’ rise in the coming years will require smart decisions, unity, and resilience on and off the field. With careful stewardship, QPR could soon reclaim their place among English football’s elite.
FAQ: QPR (Queens Park Rangers)
Q1: Who is QPR’s current manager?
As of 2025, Julien Stéphan is the head coach, appointed after Martí Cifuentes’ departure in June 2025.
Q2: What position did QPR finish in the 2024-25 Championship season?
QPR finished 15th in the Championship with 56 points.
Q3: Which players did QPR sign in the 2025 summer transfer window?
Key signings included Karamoko Dembele, Koki Saito, Richard Kone, Kwame Poku, and Kealey Adamson.
Q4: Who is Jimmy Dunne and why is he important to QPR?
Jimmy Dunne is a versatile fullback who was QPR’s player of the season and made his Republic of Ireland debut in 2025. The club is keen on keeping him under a new contract.
Q5: What are QPR’s ambitions for the coming years?
The club aims to stabilise performance, build an exciting team, and secure promotion back to the Premier League.
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