Championship:
Daniel Farke’s Leeds United is hoping to secure promotion to the Premier League after narrowly missing out last season. However, they are facing a challenging season as their squad is currently weaker than when they lost the play-off final to Southampton. Leeds has lost key players such as Crysencio Summerville, Archie Gray, and Glen Kamara. Although they have brought in Jayden Bogle and Joe Rothwell on loan, it remains to be seen if they will be able to secure a top-two finish.
Relegated teams Luton, Sheffield United, and Burnley are expected to be strong contenders for an immediate return to the Championship. Sheffield United, in particular, has been active in the transfer market, making notable signings such as left-back Harrison Burrows and experienced striker Kieffer Moore. Burnley’s best move was appointing Scott Parker as their manager after Vincent Kompany left for Bayern Munich. Additionally, Oliver Arblaster of Sheffield United and Rav van den Berg of Middlesbrough are young talents to watch out for in the Championship.
League One:
Birmingham’s drop to League One came as a surprise to fans, especially after the new American owners promised to get the team out of the Championship. However, getting out of League One is no easy task, as demonstrated by Charlton, Sunderland, and Portsmouth in the past. Birmingham has been active in the transfer market, bringing in several new players, including Alfie May, Ryan Allsop, Marc Leonard, Christoph Klarer, Willum Thor Willumsson, Emil Hansson, and Alex Cochrane. Meanwhile, Ryan Reynolds’ Wrexham is aiming for a third consecutive promotion but has only made a few signings so far. It may be a season of consolidation for them.
League Two:
Bromley is making its debut in the EFL this season and is expected to have a strong campaign under manager Andy Woodman. However, the National League champions, Chesterfield, are considered the better-equipped team and should challenge for promotion. They have made astute signings such as Chey Dunkley, Paddy Madden, Vontae Daley-Campbell, Lewis Gordon, and Devan Tanton. Gillingham, under the guidance of Mark Bonner, is also expected to have a successful season. Mark Bonner, who previously took Cambridge United up three years ago, has the potential to lead Gillingham to a strong finish.
In conclusion, the new football season brings excitement and anticipation across the EFL divisions. Leeds United aims to secure promotion to the Premier League, while relegated teams Luton, Sheffield United, and Burnley are strong contenders for an immediate return. Birmingham faces the challenge of getting out of League One, while Wrexham hopes to continue their impressive run of promotions. Bromley and Chesterfield are expected to have strong campaigns in League Two, with Gillingham also showing promise. It will be an exciting season with plenty of talent and competition in all three divisions.