News broke yesterday that Yoane Wissa did not train with his teammates despite being present at the club’s training ground. The DRC forward, who returned alongside the rest of the squad, reportedly left before the session began. Although the club itself has not made any comment on the situation, it is understood from press comment that he is frustrated and disappointed with the club’s handling of his future amid strong interest from Newcastle United.
The saga began when Newcastle tabled a £25 million bid for Wissa – a significant sum, but one that Brentford quickly rejected. Allegedly, the Magpies were prepared to negotiate, but talks stalled when Brentford’s valuation proved too steep for their liking. Reports suggest that this impasse has left Wissa questioning whether the move he desires will ever materialise. And now, his decision to effectively down tools adds another layer of bitterness to an already unsavoury situation.
From a fan’s perspective, it’s a bewildering and gut‑wrenching turn of events. Many are unsure whether to feel sad or outright angry at Wissa’s stance if reports are to be believed. Here is a player who has been embraced by the Brentford faithful, who has enjoyed their vocal support, and who has been given the platform to shine in the Premier League. Yet now, with what appears to be his last big payday looming, Wissa seems prepared to sour that relationship in pursuit of a pay day.
It’s hard not to view this as out-and-out petulance. Yes, footballers have short careers and every major transfer can shape generational wealth, but there are ways to push for a transfer without alienating the very people who have backed you from day one. Refusing to train, particularly at a club like Brentford that has built its Premier League survival on unity and togetherness, cuts deep.
Wissa’s calculation seems simple: make life uncomfortable enough and the Bees will relent. Sometimes it works. But it always leaves scars, both for the club and for the player’s reputation, and only time will tell how Brentford will react.
The club have made it clear they won’t be bullied into selling on the cheap this window already. That stance deserves respect. They know what Wissa is worth to them, both financially and in terms of performance, and they are under no obligation to cave in just because a player fancies a move. The badge, as the saying goes, will always be bigger than the name on the back of the shirt.
Sadly, whatever happens next, Wissa’s relationship with the fans is unlikely to ever be the same. Even if a transfer doesn’t materialise, the damage is done.
He has already gambled on being remembered less for his goals and more for the moment he turned his back when the club needed unity most.
Dave Lane
I cannot see the powers that be within Brentford discussing potentially letting Wissa move on if a club came in for him with a figure of £26m. Yes, maybe we said if a suitable offer we’d consider it, but an actual figure seems very very unlikely given how cannily we have negotiated since Phil Giles has been the DoF.I would love to understand from Wissa’s side who he spoke who gave him these assurances….the mail room clerk!?