Kevin Schade: What the Brentford star must improve to earn Liverpool or Man Utd move

Kevin Schade has made an eye-catching start to the 2026/27 Premier League season, but his performances at Brentford suggest there are still areas he must improve if he is to earn a move to either Liverpool or Manchester United.

The 24-year-old has scored three goals in five league appearances as Brentford have emerged as one of the surprise packages of the campaign. Keith Andrews’ side are unbeaten and sit fourth, just three points behind defending champions Arsenal, after impressive victories over Chelsea and Tottenham.

Schade’s form has added another layer to Brentford’s excellent beginning. The German has established himself as an important attacking option since arriving from Freiburg in 2023 for €24 million and has scored 25 goals in all competitions for the Bees.

However, with reports linking him with Liverpool and Manchester United, his current numbers also highlight a significant weakness that could determine whether either club decides to make a move.

Schade’s attacking numbers make a case

Schade’s goalscoring record is among the strongest aspects of his game. Only Yoane Wissa, Bryan Mbeumo and Igor Thiago have scored more goals for Brentford since he joined the club.

He has also been a regular presence in the team, making more than 100 appearances since the beginning of the 2023/24 campaign. His pace and direct approach have made him particularly effective when Brentford break quickly.

His 18 fast breaks are joint-most at the club alongside Thiago, while his 58.41% shot accuracy puts him among Brentford’s leading performers in that department.

Schade has registered 146 shots on target during his time at the club, with only Wissa producing more. His willingness to take responsibility in attacking situations has therefore been evident.

Those qualities could appeal to Liverpool, who have been dealing with the challenge of replacing Mohamed Salah following the Egyptian’s departure from Anfield.

Manchester United could also see value in Schade as they continue rebuilding under Michael Carrick. His ability to operate from the right and contribute directly to attacks could make him an option worth considering.

Passing remains the biggest concern

The clearest area Schade needs to address is his passing.

His passing accuracy stands at just 65.93%, with only Dango Ouattara recording a lower percentage among Brentford players. That figure could prove problematic for a player hoping to join clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United, where retaining possession and executing passes consistently are central to their attacking approach.

Crossing is another area where Schade has considerable room for improvement.

He has attempted 71 crosses during his Brentford career but has successfully found his target with only 15, giving him a completion rate of 21.13%. For a winger, improving the quality and consistency of his deliveries would strengthen his overall attacking contribution.

Schade does offer evidence that he can create opportunities. He has created 65 chances, including 20 classified as big chances, while his 1,100 one-on-one duels are the most attempted by any Brentford player in the period under review.

Physical qualities offer encouragement

There are also aspects of Schade’s game beyond his goals and assists that make him an intriguing prospect.

He has competed in 448 aerial duels, with only Nathan Collins involved in more for Brentford. His physical presence allows him to compete effectively despite primarily operating in an attacking role.

His defensive numbers are less remarkable, with 85 clearances and 29 interceptions placing him around the middle of Brentford’s squad. However, those statistics are not necessarily a major concern given his primary responsibilities in the final third.

The more pressing task is therefore improving his technical efficiency, particularly when passing and delivering crosses.

Brentford face a contract decision

The timing could also become important for Brentford. Schade’s current contract runs until the summer of 2028, leaving the club with a relatively limited window to secure his future or maximise his value if he decides against extending his stay.

Having paid €24 million for him, Brentford would expect a substantially higher fee should Liverpool, Manchester United or another major club make an approach.

Schade’s age also works in his favour. At 24, he still has time to develop the weaker elements of his game while building on the pace, shooting, physicality and directness that have already made him an important part of Andrews’ side.