Leicester City, relegated to League One after a decade of top-flight football, are considered promotion contenders under new manager Russell Martin, while Notts County and AFC Wimbledon are tipped for a difficult campaign, according to the Guardian's 2026-27 League One preview.
Leicester City's reset under Russell Martin
The Guardian's preview notes that Leicester, Premier League champions a decade ago, have fallen to the third tier due to chronic mismanagement. Martin has overseen a squad overhaul, shipping out top earners and bringing in limited reinforcements, but retains quality in Harry Souttar and Stephy Mavididi. Young talents are expected to get chances, supported by these key players.
Stockport County, after replacing long-serving manager Dave Challinor with Jimmy McNulty following a playoff final defeat, are also contenders. They have adopted a youth-focused strategy, but added experience through permanent signing Ben Osborn and free transfer Eoghan O'Connell.
Sheffield Wednesday, Luton, and Reading's ambitions
Sheffield Wednesday, with new ownership and a squad overhaul, signed Louie Barry, a sign of intent, though the Guardian questions whether they can maximize his potential. Luton, under Jack Wilshere, have added Kasey Palmer permanently and Callum Marshall for attacking thrust. Reading, more settled, brought in former Accrington manager John Coleman as assistant to Leam Richardson, a potentially shrewd move.
Bradford, after playoff semi-final defeat, have tweaked their squad with Callum Connolly and Adam Phillips. Plymouth, relegated, lost striker Lorent Tolaj to Bristol City, but Tom Cleverley has Will Evans as the new goal threat.
Hopefuls: Huddersfield, MK Dons, and others
Huddersfield's Martin Drury, in his first senior managerial role, has Alan Knill for support, with Matty Young on loan from Sunderland and Ashley Fletcher signed. MK Dons, promoted, have added proven players like Ryan Wintle, Cohen Bramall, Dan Barlaser, Sam Silvera, and Sam Nombe.
Wigan and Blackpool are unlikely to push for promotion, with limited transfer activity. Barnsley, with Daniel Stendel back, have a young squad featuring Reyes Cleary. Oxford United's Aaron Ramsey is a full-time manager, but a transfer embargo and Frankie Kent's ACL injury have hampered them. Leyton Orient, avoiding another relegation battle, signed Fin Stevens, Joseph Olowu, and Isaac Hayden, but lost Dom Ballard; they reinvested in club-record signing Jaze Kabia. Wycombe, with Michael Duff, have Steve Cook at the back. Stevenage, despite losing Charlie Goode and Harvey White, have coach Alex Revell. Mansfield, with Nigel Clough, have David McGoldrick and Michael Smith, a strike partnership with a combined age of 72.
Strugglers and ones to watch
Notts County's transfer business, including players relegated from League Two, suggests a battle, especially after selling Alassana Jatta. Bromley, League Two champions, lack resources. Burton, finishing one place above the drop in the last two seasons, have Corey Addai in goal but questions over Matthew Dennis. Cambridge, promoted automatically, signed experienced players. AFC Wimbledon, quiet in the summer, rely on Jayden Stockley for goals.
The Guardian highlights three players to watch: James Bailey (Stockport, 18), a free transfer from Manchester United; Will Grainger (Sheffield Wednesday, 17), a Wales youth international; and Vimal Yoganathan (Barnsley, 20), a Wales international midfielder.
