Football Season Guide

Barnsley endured a mixed 2023/24 campaign. A strong start was let down by a poor end, eventually resulting in play-off disappointment. Interim manager Martin Devaney could not change The Tykes' fortunes following his late-April appointment. Darrell Clarke has been hired as new Barnsley boss. He has experience at this level, managing Cheltenham Town last season, though they were relegated. He brings ex-Aston Vila midfielder Hourihane in as a player-coach. The aforementioned Hourihane adds further quality to a strong midfield featuring Callum Styles, Adam Phillips and Luca Connell. Barnsley also boast a stern defence fronted by January signing Donovan Pines. Barnsley have lost some of their quality in the form of key goalscorer Devante Cole and important midfielders Kane and Cadden. The midfield pair have been replaced. The Tykes could look to use a kind early fixture list to their advantage as they look to bed in new players. Their impressive goal tally last season could drastically drop off. Barnsley are yet to find someone who can come in and replicate Cole's goals, while Kane was also a vital part of the team.