The EFL Championship is back for the 2025/26 season, and it’s already looking like one of the most exciting ones yet! There are 24 teams competing in England’s second-highest soccer league, and only three of them will make it to the Premier League, the top league in English football.
This season, we have some big-name teams who were recently relegated from the Premier League, teams that nearly made it last year, and even some fresh faces hoping to surprise everyone. From smart transfers to passionate fans, every club has its own story—and we’re here to tell you which ones have the best chance of getting promoted!
Leicester City – Trying to Bounce Back
Leicester City used to be a Premier League champion in 2016, shocking the world by winning the title against all odds. But now, they’ve been relegated and are trying to figure out how to get back on top.
Things aren’t going too smoothly. Their former captain Jamie Vardy and goalkeeper Danny Ward are gone, and the club has only brought in one new player—defender Woyo Coulibaly from Italy. Fans are upset with the club’s leadership, and some worry they might even get points deducted for financial issues.
Leicester still has a good chance because of their history and resources, but unless they start scoring more goals at home and sign more quality players, it could be a long season for the Foxes.
🔹 Did You Know? Leicester were the first team ever to win the Premier League after starting the season with 5,000-to-1 odds!
Ipswich Town – Stable and Ready
Ipswich made it to the Premier League last year but were quickly relegated. However, they didn’t panic. The club kept Kieran McKenna as manager and didn’t sell off all their players. That’s a big plus!
They’ve brought in experienced players like Ashley Young (who once played for Manchester United) and goalkeeper David Button. They’ve also added strong defenders like Cedric Kipre and midfielder Azor Matusiwa. If they can find someone who scores regularly (since last season’s striker Liam Delap is gone), they’ll be hard to stop.
With their team spirit, solid tactics, and big spending in previous seasons, Ipswich are one of the top favorites to go straight back up.
🔹 Fun Fact: Ipswich have won the FA Cup (1978) and even the UEFA Cup (1981)!
Southampton – Hoping Youth Leads the Way
Southampton are another recently relegated team trying to return to the Premier League. They’ve got a new manager, Will Still, and a lot of young players ready to prove themselves.
So far, they haven’t spent much money this summer. Instead, they sold players to bring in cash, but that could be risky. If their younger players perform well, they’ll be a strong side. But if not, it could be a tough season.
Their stadium, St Mary’s, and big fanbase give them a great foundation. Plus, thanks to “parachute payments” (money clubs receive after being relegated), they have more financial power than some others.
🔹 Did You Know? Southampton’s academy has produced stars like Gareth Bale, Theo Walcott, and Luke Shaw!
Sheffield United – Experienced, But Aging
Sheffield United were close to promotion recently but fell short. Now led by Ruben Selles, the team hasn’t made any big signings—but they also didn’t lose key players. That means they’re hoping experience and teamwork will lead them to the top.
The problem? Their players are getting older, and their squad is a bit small. If too many get injured or tired during the long season (46 matches!), they might struggle to keep up.
Still, they have strong fans and a stadium known for its electric atmosphere: Bramall Lane.
🔹 Soccer Fact: Sheffield United were one of the founding clubs of the Premier League in 1992!
Birmingham City – Surprise Package?
Birmingham City are back in the Championship after a record-breaking season in League One (the third division). They won 111 points, the most ever in Football League history!
They’ve brought in exciting new players like Kyogo Furuhashi (a goal machine from Celtic) and Demarai Gray, along with young star Jay Stansfield.
Their ownership group includes NFL legend Tom Brady, which has brought a lot of attention and investment. Some people think they could do the unthinkable and get back-to-back promotions!
🔹 Did You Know? Birmingham’s nickname is “The Blues” and their fans are known for being super loyal.
Coventry City – Steady and Solid
Coventry came close to promotion last season, making it to the playoffs but missing out. They’re now managed by Frank Lampard, a former Chelsea legend, and things are looking promising.
They’ve added some smart players, including Kaine Kesler-Hayden and midfielder Matt Grimes, who joined in January. With striker Haji Wright leading the attack and midfielder Jack Rudoni creating chances, Coventry could be one of the most balanced teams in the league.
They may not have the flashiest team, but their clear strategy and unity might get them into the playoff spots again—or even higher!
🔹 Soccer Fact: Coventry once won the FA Cup in 1987 in one of the most exciting finals ever!
What Do the Bookies Think?
Here are the current odds for promotion (lower numbers mean higher chances):
Ipswich – 4/1
Southampton – 11/2
Birmingham – 15/2
Sheffield United – 17/2
Coventry – 14/1
Leicester – 14/1
So, according to betting companies, Ipswich and Southampton are the top favorites, but don’t count out Birmingham, Coventry, or Sheffield United.
Other Teams to Watch
Don’t forget these teams who could surprise everyone:
West Brom – Always tough to beat.
Watford – Full of talent but need stability.
Middlesbrough – Known for strong finishes.
Norwich – Have gone up and down between leagues for years.
Wrexham – The “Hollywood” club owned by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney!
Final Whistle
The race for Premier League promotion is always full of drama, goals, and surprises. With 24 teams, 46 matchdays, and three spots up for grabs, anything can happen!
Some clubs have the money, some have the momentum, and others have the magic—but only the strongest will make it to the top flight of English football.
So grab your scarf, cheer on your team, and get ready for another wild ride in the EFL Championship 2025/26 season!
