Promotion Favourites Open the Weekend

It’s not every day that a recently promoted club is tipped for success in the Championship, but Birmingham City is defying expectations. After a record-breaking stint in League One, they face Ipswich Town, a team fresh from the Premier League. This clash will test Birmingham’s readiness for the second tier.

Key Quote:

"The Championship's very hard. There are some very good teams coming down from the Premier League. It'll be a good benchmark to see whether we can challenge the best teams." - Jay Stansfield, Birmingham City forward

Unsteady Foxes Host Imploding Owls

Leicester City and Sheffield Wednesday both enter the season with significant challenges. Leicester’s pre-season has been marred by financial breaches and managerial uncertainty, while Sheffield Wednesday faces severe financial disarray, threatening their very existence.

Matchup to Watch: Leicester City vs. Sheffield United, Sunday 16:30 BST

New Managers Chasing Good First Impressions

Eleven teams have new managers this season, adding intrigue to the opening weekend. Sheffield United’s Ruben Selles faces high expectations, while Bristol City’s Gerhard Struber aims to prove his mettle.

Managerial Spotlight:

• Ruben Selles (Sheffield United): Fans expect a flying start to avoid early discontent.
• Gerhard Struber (Bristol City): Believes the Premier League is within reach.

Losing in the Play-offs: Wycombe’s Hangover

Wycombe Wanderers are still reeling from their play-off semi-final loss last season. They face Stockport County, who are riding high after a big win over Bolton Wanderers.

Player to Watch: Malik Mothersille, Stockport County’s new signing, who scored in his league debut.

Quote:

"To beat [Bolton] in our first game sends a message to the rest of the league. It shows us that we can beat anyone." - Malik Mothersille

Follow the Action

Catch live text coverage of all Championship, League One, and League Two matches on the BBC Sport website and app. The season kicks off with Birmingham City vs. Ipswich Town on 8 August at 19:30 BST.