League One 2025-26 Season Preview: A Closer Look at Teams and Expectations

League One 2025-26 Season Preview: A Closer Look at Teams and Expectations

League One 2025-26 Season Preview: A Closer Look at Teams and Expectations

League One's 2025-26 season begins with familiar dynamics. Despite differences in last season's promotion paths, Birmingham City and Wrexham, backed by substantial financial investment, dominated both on the field and in the league narrative. With their promotion to the Championship, a more balanced competition is anticipated this season.

While certain clubs, notably Huddersfield Town, have spent more heavily, the league maintains a competitive balance where no team is without uncertainties. Identifying clear promotion favorites remains challenging.

This Friday, Luton Town and AFC Wimbledon kick off the season at 20:00 BST. BBC Sport correspondents provide insights into what lies ahead for all 24 clubs.

AFC Wimbledon

Reporter: Chris Peddy, BBC Sport London

Manager: Johnnie Jackson

Last Season: Fifth in League Two (won play-off final)

Key Additions: Alistair Smith (Lincoln, free), Steve Seddon (Motherwell, free), Joe McDonnell (Eastleigh), Nathan Bishop (Sunderland), Delano McCoy-Splatt (Fulham, free)

Key Departures: Josh Neufville (Bradford City, free), James Tilley (Wycombe, free)

Season Expectations: AFC Wimbledon, after a six-season tenure in League One, aims to re-establish itself as a stable third-tier team following their 2022 relegation.

Strengths: The team boasts a robust defensive lineup, having conceded the fewest goals in League Two last season. Key players like Ryan Johnson and Alistair Smith remain integral to their strategy.

Weaknesses: Scoring was a challenge, with only 56 goals last season, the lowest among the top nine teams. Matty Stevens was the sole player to score in double digits.

Player to Watch: Matty Stevens, a former Forest Green Rovers striker, had a strong start with 20 goals in 38 games. However, his performance waned towards season's end.

Barnsley

Reporter: Adam Oxley, BBC Radio Sheffield

Head Coach: Conor Hourihane

Last Season: 12th

Key Additions: David McGoldrick (Notts County, free), Murphy Cooper (QPR, loan), Caylan Vickers (Brighton, loan), Patrick Kelly (West Ham, free)

Key Departures: Stephen Humphrys (Bradford, free), Max Watters (Dundee United, loan), Corey O'Keeffe (Stockport, loan), Donovan Pines (released)

Expectations: With Conor Hourihane taking over mid-season, Barnsley is in a transition phase. Aiming for a Championship return, the club may face a year of adjustment with a focus on mid-table stability.

Strengths: A revised formation and style of play, focusing on a strong core including Marc Roberts and David McGoldrick, provide a solid foundation.

Weaknesses: Depth is a concern, especially with reliance on academy players, who bring unpredictability.

Player to Watch: David McGoldrick, despite his age, brings experience and excitement to the team.

Blackpool

Reporter: Ian Chisnall, BBC Radio Lancashire

Manager: Steve Bruce

Last Season: Ninth

Key Additions: Fraser Horsfall (Stockport, free), Michael Ihiekwe (Sheffield Wednesday, free), George Honeyman (Millwall, free), Jordan Brown (Leyton Orient, undisclosed)

Key Departures: Sonny Carey (Charlton, free), Rob Apter (Charlton, undisclosed), Jake Beesley (Burton, undisclosed)

Expectations: Manager Steve Bruce is committed to a promotion push this season, having begun reshaping the squad last January.

Strengths: A competitive midfield and a reinforced defense are key areas of strength.

Weaknesses: The departure of Rob Apter and injuries necessitate further recruitment in wide positions.

Player to Watch: George Honeyman, known for his higher-level experience, could be pivotal.

Bolton Wanderers

Reporter: Jack Dearden, BBC Radio Manchester

Key Additions: Amario Cozier-Duberry (Brighton, loan), Thierry Gale (Rapid Vienna, undisclosed), Xavier Simons (Hull, undisclosed), Ethan Erhanon (Lincoln, undisclosed), Mason Burstow (Hull, loan)

Key Departures: Aaron Collins (MK Dons, undisclosed), Ricardo Santos (Swansea, free), Gethin Jones (MK Dons, free), George Thomason (Wrexham, undisclosed)

Expectations: There is significant pressure on Bolton Wanderers to secure promotion. Manager Steven Schumacher has been supported with resources for squad enhancement.

Strengths: The team focuses on youthful energy and swift counter-attacks.

Weaknesses: Consistency is needed, particularly in converting opportunities and strengthening defense.

Player to Watch: Charlie Warren, a prolific scorer at non-league level, is seen as a potential goal-scoring asset.

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