Derby County’s pre-season preparations for the 2025/2026 campaign are set to kick off with a local derby against Burton Albion in July. The match, which is scheduled to take place at Burton’s Pirelli Stadium, will be a significant test for both teams as they look to fine-tune their squads ahead of the new season.
The fixture will not only be a great opportunity for manager Paul Warne and his coaching staff to assess the fitness levels and form of their players, but it will also serve as a vital chance for new signings to gel with their teammates in a competitive setting. Derby, who are looking to bounce back from a challenging season, will be aiming to build on a solid foundation of experience and youthful talent. With several key players already announced as part of the 2025 squad, this pre-season clash will allow fans to get their first glimpse of how the new-look Rams will play under Warne’s leadership.
For Burton Albion, the match represents a chance to prepare for another campaign in League One. Managed by Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, the Brewers will be eager to hit the ground running in their bid to improve on their mid-table finish from last season. The match will allow Hasselbaink to assess how his team is coming together following some key signings during the transfer window.
The local rivalry between Derby County and Burton Albion adds an extra layer of intrigue to the encounter. Though Derby County boasts the higher profile, the Brewers will undoubtedly be motivated to prove their worth on home soil. Both sets of supporters will be eager to see their teams deliver a performance that sets the tone for the season ahead. The game will also have a deeper significance, as local derbies often bring out the best in players and create an atmosphere that’s hard to replicate in other friendlies.
While pre-season fixtures are generally viewed as warm-ups, the Derby-Burton encounter promises to be a hard-fought contest with plenty of passion on display. Fans of both clubs will be watching intently, knowing that this early clash could offer vital insight into how their respective teams are shaping up for the challenges of the 2025/2026 season.
For both clubs, the match is more than just a friendly—it’s a chance to set the stage for what they hope will be a successful campaign.
