The 2025/26 season has been one of significant transformation for Queens Park Rangers, marked by a managerial change and a major squad overhaul. Frenchman Julien Stephan took the helm at Loftus Road following the controversial departure of Marti Cifuentes to Leicester City, and his arrival coincided with a substantial exodus of first-team players.
Permanent Departures: Mixed Fortunes in New Surroundings
Several key figures left W12 on permanent deals, with varying degrees of success so far. Striker Charlie Kelman, sold to Championship rivals Charlton Athletic for a reported £3.5 million, has found life tough. The 24-year-old, who scored 27 goals on loan at Leyton Orient last term, has managed just one league goal for the Addicks and is currently sidelined with injury.
Defender Kenneth Paal ended his three-year stay to join Turkish Süper Lig side Antalyaspor on a free transfer. The 28-year-old has been a regular starter but is yet to replicate the attacking output he showed at QPR, without registering a goal or an assist.
Meanwhile, Morgan Fox dropped down to League One with Wigan Athletic. The versatile defender has become a mainstay for the Latics, contributing three assists and even taking on a leadership role. Manager Ryan Lowe revealed Fox delivered a team talk when the side was 1-0 down to Mansfield Town in October, showing his growing influence.
Loan Moves: From European Nights to Debut Delight
The loan market was busy for QPR, with players sent across Europe and the English football pyramid. Goalkeeper Nathan Shepperd, released after failing to make a first-team appearance, joined Welsh champions The New Saints. The 25-year-old has become first choice and experienced Champions League and Conference League qualifying football, though his side did not progress.
In Germany, striker Zan Celar is yet to score in 10 appearances for 2. Bundesliga club Fortuna Düsseldorf, mostly featuring from the bench. Full-back Hevertton Santos is developing in Portugal's Primeira Liga with Gil Vicente, making 11 appearances but often in brief cameos.
There was a moment of joy for young defender Emmerson Sutton on loan at Morecambe. The 18-year-old scored a late winner on his debut in a thrilling 4-3 victory, prompting excited reactions from QPR fans online who tipped him for a bright future. Fellow loanee Elijah Dixon-Bonner is also at Morecambe but has seen his minutes interrupted by injury.
Injury Setbacks and Goalkeeper Praise
Other loans have been impacted by fitness issues. Striker Alfie Lloyd, who scored in the Championship last season, only made his Leyton Orient debut in late October due to injury and is yet to find the net in 10 appearances.
On a more positive note, goalkeeper Murphy Cooper has impressed on loan at Barnsley. The shot-stopper, who signed a new QPR contract before his move, is first choice for the League One side. Manager Conor Hourihane praised his agility and the crucial saves he has made, highlighting a successful spell for the young keeper.
The summer also saw the departures of Lucas Andersen, Taylor Richards, and Jack Colback, who were released and remain without clubs. As QPR builds under Stephan, the paths of those who departed continue to diverge dramatically across the footballing landscape.
