Championship 2026-27 preview: the contenders, hopefuls and strugglers

West Ham United emerge as the standout contenders for immediate Championship promotion following their relegation from the Premier League, bolstered by Jarrod Bowen's commitment to the club despite interest from rival suitors. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo inherits a squad with proven top-flight experience and significant financial backing, having generated substantial funds through the sales of Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes. The Hammers' recruitment strategy remains measured, presenting a calculated approach to their rebuild rather than panic spending. With 46 matches ahead in the 2026-27 campaign, West Ham's blend of established talent and fresh investment positions them as primary favorites to secure automatic promotion, though their transfer activity will require acceleration to address identified squad gaps.

The Championship's expanded playoff structure this season creates unprecedented opportunities for mid-table ambitions, fundamentally altering the competitive landscape beyond the traditional promotion battle. Traditionally, only the top two guaranteed Premier League football, with playoffs determining the third promotion spot. Now, additional playoff positions incentivize broader competition across the division, allowing clubs finishing fifth, sixth, or seventh to harbor realistic promotion aspirations. This structural change represents a significant shift in the competitive psychology, particularly for established Championship stalwarts seeking to challenge the favorites. The relegation of multiple Premier League clubs provides a complex dynamic, with some facing confusion during offseason planning while others maintain organizational stability and clear recruitment strategies.

Southampton's involvement carries additional narrative complexity, their preparation shadowed by the ongoing spygate controversy that has dominated discourse surrounding their recent activities and competitive standing. The uncertainty surrounding managerial decisions and player morale following various institutional challenges creates unpredictability in their promotion credentials. Meanwhile, other relegated sides face questions about sustainability and resource allocation as they navigate championship football. The season ahead will test whether West Ham's experience and resources translate to sustained excellence over a grueling 46-match campaign, while simultaneously determining whether newly promoted clubs can maintain competitive relevance beyond their immediate bounce-back ambitions.