The 2026/27 EFL season kicks off this weekend, and Mirror Football's team has made their predictions for the Championship, League One, and League Two. West Ham United are the overwhelming favourites to win the Championship, with Leicester City and Salford City tipped for promotion in the lower divisions.
Championship: West Ham and Wolves Lead the Pack
West Ham, relegated from the Premier League last season, are expected to bounce back immediately. Keeping Jarrod Bowen is seen as a key factor, with several pundits tipping him as the division's top scorer. Wolves, also relegated, are predicted to challenge strongly, with Raul Jimenez returning to lead their attack.
Middlesbrough, who narrowly missed out on promotion last year, are also fancied for a top-two finish. Norwich City, transformed under Philippe Clement, are tipped as a surprise package by multiple journalists. At the other end, Lincoln City, Bolton Wanderers, and Charlton Athletic are frequently predicted for relegation.
League One and League Two: Leicester and Salford Favourites
Leicester City are the clear favourites to win League One, with Russell Martin expected to guide them back to the Championship. In League Two, Salford City, backed by Gary Neville and David Beckham, are tipped for promotion after an impressive transfer window, though Bristol Rovers and Chesterfield also receive mentions.
Surprise Packages and Top Scorers
Jarrod Bowen is the most popular pick for the Championship's top scorer, with Raul Jimenez and Will Lankshear also mentioned. Surprise packages include Portsmouth, QPR, Cardiff City, Norwich City, Lincoln City, Millwall, Stoke City, and Swansea City.
The predictions reflect a season of high expectations for the relegated clubs, with West Ham and Leicester seen as too strong for their respective divisions. The expanded play-offs, now featuring the top eight, add extra intrigue to the Championship race.
