Reviewing 2025/26

Too good to go down. That was the phrase on a lot of people's lips when asked about their relegation chances. And they should have been, but they never got above sixteenth in the table and when they lost three on the spin to Brentford, Arsenal and Newcastle, it allowed Spurs to climb above them and only a Tottenham defeat and a West Ham win on the final day would save them. The Hammers obliged. Spurs did not and after 14 years in the Premier League, the London Stadium will host Championship football for the first time.

Looking ahead to 2026/27

Nuno has been there and done it already when it comes to winning the Championship. Interstingly, the side he did it with, Wolves, will arguably be their closest challengers for the title this season. AI and the bookies feel West Ham will have too much for everyone else. The latter have the Hammers at just 2/1 for the title.

A lot happens when a side is relegated from the Premier League. Parachute payments help. But they're also absolutely needed. The money in the Championship is chalk and cheese to the Premier League, so it's no surprise to see many players leaving the club. The good thing is that the fees haven't been watered down too much and should help stabilise the club, allowing for a few purchases before the season kicks off. Mateus Fernandes transfer to Tottenham was officially marked down as being £99m. The highest transfer fee ever received by a Championship club. And I doubt that will be beaten for many many years to come.

Court Offside Tip

I was flitting between the Hammers and Wolves for the title but as soon as I saw Jarrod Bowen commit his future to the club I found it impossible to bet any other way. Far far too good for this level and he should score pot loads this next 9 months. 7/4 for the title is unavoidable for me.