Oxford United head coach Aaron Ramsey has insisted nothing changes despite the club’s recent transfer ban, as the U’s train in Spain ahead of the 2026/27 League One season. The former Arsenal midfielder, now in his fourth week in charge, spoke after Oxford were hit with a temporary ban from registering new players last week. The club insists it will be in a strong position by January, but Ramsey’s focus remains on the squad already in place.
Oxford United sit 22nd in the Championship with 47 points from 46 games, 48 points behind leaders Coventry, and their recent form reads LWLLW. Their last result was a 2-0 loss at Millwall on 2 May 2026, while their next fixture is a pre-season clash away to Aldershot Town on 21 July 2026.
What did Ramsey say about the transfer ban?
Ramsey acknowledged fan frustration over the ban but stressed his approach hasn’t shifted. “I can empathise with the fans-the frustration and things in that situation-but from my perspective, nothing changes,” he said. “I’m really excited to work with this group of players. The way that I work and my staff work, I feel like there’s a lot of room for improvement as well.”
The ban, imposed last week, blocks Oxford from signing new players until it’s lifted. The club insists it won’t derail their January plans, but Ramsey’s comments suggest confidence in the current squad’s potential despite the setback.
How are key absences affecting the squad?
Ramsey revealed the extent of two major absences in Spain. New signing Frankie Kent will miss months after suffering an ACL injury just weeks after joining from Cardiff City. “We’re really gutted about Frankie’s situation,” Ramsey said. “He’s a really positive character, really excited to work with him, but sometimes these things happen in football.”
Winger Stan Mills is also delayed after falling ill midweek. Ramsey confirmed Mills will stay back to regain fitness before rejoining the group on Monday. “We feel like it’s best now that he gains a little bit of fitness back there,” he added.
What’s next for Ramsey’s coaching setup?
Ramsey has moved quickly to reshape his backroom team, appointing former Wales teammate Chris Gunter and ex-Cardiff City Under-18s boss Tom Hutton. “I always knew [Gunter] was destined to go on and become a great coach,” Ramsey said. “He understands it from the player’s perspective. He’s really detailed and has a great energy about him.”
Hutton’s arrival has also impressed Ramsey, who praised his tactical detail. “I was blown away by his detail and the way that [Hutton] sees the game,” he noted. “I think they’re great additions for us, and so far, I think the boys have bought into them.”
Oxford United’s pre-season continues in Spain, with Ramsey’s focus on cohesion and fitness before the League One curtain-raiser. The transfer ban looms large, but the boss insists his squad remains his priority-injuries and all.
The U’s have conceded 59 goals this season and sit 14 off the pace, with just two wins in their last four outings. Ramsey’s challenge is clear: turn potential into points, and fast.
