The 2026/27 League One season kicks off this weekend with one of the most open campaigns in years. From fallen giants with big wage bills to hungry underdogs, the gap between the division’s heavyweights and the rest has rarely been so wide.
Bromley
In their maiden League One campaign under the impressive guidance of Andy Woodman, following a stunning title-winning League Two season in which they amassed 87 points and proved just why this club continue to rise, Bromley arrive in the third tier with a clear ambition of survival. Several impressive signings at this level, including Victor Adeboyejo on a free transfer, Ethon Archer on loan from Luton Town, and title winner Kamil Conteh from Lincoln City last season, show that Bromley are not just here to make up the numbers, but to demonstrate just how far their underdog status can go. Their season begins at Oakwell against Barnsley in what will be a memorable occasion for the club.
Cambridge United
Off the back of a solid campaign, Cambridge United were promoted in third place with 82 points. Manager Neil Harris provided a much-needed dose of success at the Abbey Stadium and for his career after a turbulent few seasons in his first spell at the club and his return to Millwall. Despite a slow transfer window thus far, the arrivals have been exciting, with Callum Stead joining from Barnet after a personal-best campaign and goalkeeper Gabriel Breeze joining from Carlisle United. Veteran defender Patrick Bauer arrives from AFC Wimbledon with solidity and experience, just what they need to help the cause and survive. The U’s begin their campaign at home to Wigan Athletic in what will be a big season as the club looks to re-stabilise in League One.
Leicester City
Ten years on from their fairytale Premier League title, Leicester City face a major rebuilding job in League One after back-to-back relegations, finishing 23rd last season. The club and new manager Russell Martin must prove doubters wrong following his disastrous spell at Rangers. Given a three-year deal, Martin is overhauling the squad to fit his possession-based style. Quality attacking signings Conor Chaplin and Liam Cullen, plus impressive loan arrival Tommy Watson, add the star quality needed to challenge at the top of the division. They begin their campaign away at fellow newcomers Notts County.
Milton Keynes Dons
Paul Warne has instilled an impressive style of play and attitude since arriving at Stadium MK in April last year, boasting a 47% win rate. Last season’s promotion campaign finished on 86 points and showcased an effective approach. This summer’s business highlights the club’s pull, with quality signing Ryan Wintle, a former Cardiff City promotion winner, easily giving Warne one of the best players in the division. Sam Nombe also returns after a solid spell at Rotherham United, while Warne reunites with experienced full-back Cohen Bramall as the club begins their campaign away to Oxford United.
Notts County
The Magpies return to League One for the first time in 12 years after their 3-0 play-off final victory over Salford City in May. Manager Martin Paterson has instilled fresh energy at Meadow Lane since taking charge, backed by an astute transfer window that has secured experienced players at this level without excessive spending. Quality arrivals include James Gibbons and Max Sanders, while Callum Roberts returns from Scunthorpe United to add energy and a goal threat. Notts County begin their campaign at home to Leicester City, looking well-equipped for the challenge ahead.
Oxford United
Oxford United return to League One after a below-par season, now under former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey following the sacking of Matt Bloomfield. They begin the campaign against Milton Keynes Dons amid significant issues, including a temporary EFL transfer embargo caused by salary cost management problems that will restrict new signings. The key arrival of Frankie Kent from Hearts provides a boost, while the retention of Cameron Brannagan offers continuity. Mark Harris will hope to replicate his previous League One form, when he scored 15 goals. It promises to be a pivotal season at the Kassam Stadium.
Sheffield Wednesday
A tumultuous few campaigns at Hillsborough, plagued by financial mismanagement, saw Sheffield Wednesday relegated to League One on zero points. The club hopes to be reinvigorated under new ownership led by David Storch, with Henrik Pedersen retained as manager. Key to the rebuild is the return of club legend Barry Bannan, alongside the eye-catching arrivals of Louie Barry and Harry Gray. The Owls face a major overhaul as they begin life back in the third tier, starting their campaign away at Leyton Orient with renewed optimism.
