QPR 2026/27 Championship Preview
A high-scoring 6-1 thrashing of Portsmouth at Loftus Road late last spring served as a reminder of what Julien Stephan’s side are capable of on their day. Following a 15th-place finish with 58 points, QPR head into Stephan’s second full season in West London looking to build a consistent tactical identity rather than flirting with mid-table obscurity.
The French head coach’s brand of high-tempo football relies heavily on quick transitions through wide areas. Moroccan international playmaker Ilias Chair remains the team’s primary creative catalyst, nicely complimented by wide threat Karamoko Dembele and dynamic Japanese winger Koki Saito. Upfront, Richard Kone and Rumarn Burrell lead a youth-infused attacking line following 10+ goal output each last term. In defence, leader Jimmy Dunne wears the armband, protected by a physical midfield unit featuring Nicolas Madsen and Jonathan Varane.
Having reinforced the squad during the summer, including the loan signing of Manchester City goalkeeper Pierce Charles, the objective at Loftus Road is clear: turn home form into a reliable foundation and push closer towards the Championship top half.

QPR’s set-piece specialists
- Penalties: Ilias Chair
- Free-kicks: Ilias Chair, Karamoko Dembele
- Corners: Ilias Chair, Karamoko Dembele
Preston FAQs
Where did QPR finish in the 2025/26 Championship season?
Queens Park Rangers finished 15th in the Championship with 58 points last season.
Who is the QPR manager?
Julien Stephan is the head coach of QPR. The former Rennes and Strasbourg boss was appointed in June 2025 and enters his second full season in charge at Loftus Road.
Who is the current QPR captain?
Jimmy Dunne is the Queens Park Rangers club captain. The central defender took over the captaincy armband from Steve Cook.

