League Two 2026-27 preview: the contenders, hopefuls and strugglers

Salford City faces a crucial rebuilding phase ahead of the 2026-27 League Two season following Karl Robinson's departure after the club's playoff final defeat. The Ammies have appointed Australian manager Peter Cklamovski, who previously led Malaysia's national team, marking a significant tactical shift for the Lancashire club. Salford has secured prolific striker Macaulay Langstaff, who scored 34 goals in the National League last season, presenting a genuine attacking threat for promotion contention. The club's return to their traditional orange kit symbolizes a fresh start as they aim to finally secure promotion after consecutive playoff heartbreaks.

Chesterfield also emerges as a promotion favorite despite managerial upheaval, having shown consistent quality in recent seasons. The Spireites reached the League Two playoffs last term and possess an experienced squad capable of challenging for the title. Meanwhile, Rochdale and York City face uncertain campaigns following their own managerial changes, with both clubs losing stability during the off-season. Rochdale's recent struggles—finishing mid-table in their last full League Two season—suggest they could face further difficulties, while York's playoff heartbreak has created uncertainty about their direction and resources moving forward.

The 2026-27 League Two season will test whether Salford's investment in Langstaff and Cklamovski's tactical expertise can finally deliver promotion after years of playoff near-misses. Chesterfield's stability and experience position them as genuine title contenders, while struggling clubs must find solutions quickly to avoid dropping further down the football pyramid. With 46 matches to navigate and limited promotion spots available in League Two's competitive landscape, only the most consistent and well-managed sides will succeed in securing the jump to League One.