Leeds United were fancied to make an immediate return to the Premier League last season but their hopes ended in the play-offs final as they fell to a 1-0 defeat to Southampton.
Daniel Farke’s side will make another promotion push in 2024-25, but they are expected to face tough competition from Burnley, Luton Town and Sheffield United for the two automatic spots.
The Midlands, represented by Coventry City, West Bromwich Albion, Stoke City and Derby County this season, will also be vying to go up to the English top-flight.
Coventry almost pulled off the incredible feat when they made it to the play-offs final in 2023, only to lose it on penalties to Luton.
Under Mark Robins, the Sky Blues will have another crack at promotion and though finishing in the top two is unlikely, a place in the top six shouldn’t be beyond them.
West Brom is another top contender from the Midlands who have already made several quality additions in the form of Ousmane Diakite, Torbjorn Heggem and Joe Wildsmith this summer.
The Baggies’ promotion hopes ended in the play-offs semi-final after a 3-1 aggregate loss to Southampton. Under Carlos Corberan, they will make another push for Premier League promotion in 2024-25 and given their squad, they have a good chance.
Stoke City, who are one of the oldest football clubs in England, haven’t finished higher than 14th place since they dropped down to the Championship in 2018.
The Potters need reinforcements in several areas but their transfer business so far doesn’t offer a lot of hope for them in the upcoming season.
Derby County have climbed back into the second-tier after two years in League One. They are expected to retain their Championship status but may even exceed expectations by securing a top-10 finish.
