After a difficult season last year, where the team finished in the middle of the table, fans are hoping for progress under coach Danny Lolling. In this article, we will analyse Sheffield Wednesday's prospects for the upcoming season, looking at the squad, tactics, competition and expectations.
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History and recent results of the team
Sheffield Wednesday is one of England's oldest clubs, founded in 1867. The team has won the English championship three times and the FA Cup four times, and their Hillsborough Stadium remains a cult venue for fans. However, the last few decades have been difficult for the Owls: the club has alternated between the Championship and League One, and a return to the Premier League remains a dream. In the 2024/2025 season, the team finished 12th in the Championship with 56 points, showing progress compared to previous years but falling short of the play-off zone.
Danny Loe, appointed head coach in 2023, brought stability and an attacking style that restored the fans' faith. His contract has been extended until 2027, which speaks to the confidence of the management.
How has the team's roster changed?
Sheffield Wednesday's squad for the new season has retained key players such as captain Barry Bannan and winger Josh Windass, who provide experience and leadership. The club signed midfielder Sven Spong from Norwich for £2 million and loaned striker James Beale from Manchester United. However, the departure of defender Liam Palmer to Watford for £5 million has weakened the defence, and his replacement has not yet been found.
The club's transfer policy focuses on budget signings and youth development. The Wednesday Academy continues to produce talent, such as 19-year-old midfielder Sean Fuseire, who made his debut last season. Röl is banking on a balance between experienced players and young talent, but a limited budget could make it difficult to compete with wealthier clubs such as Burnley or Leeds.
New playing tactics
Danny Røhl has instilled an attacking style in the team, with an emphasis on possession and quick wing attacks. Last season, the Owls averaged 48% possession and created around 10 chances per game, but their finishing was poor (averaging 1.3 goals per game). Røhl prefers a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Bannan playing a key role in midfield and Windass and Beale posing a threat on the wings and in attack.
The team is expected to continue developing this style in the new season, but with a greater emphasis on finishing attacks. The defence will need more stability, especially after the loss of Palmer. Röl will likely use high pressing to compensate for weaknesses in defence, but this could lead to vulnerability on counterattacks.
The 2025/2026 Championship promises to be one of the most competitive in recent years. Burnley, Leeds and Watford are considered the main favourites for promotion, while Sheffield United and Sunderland will also be fighting for a top-six finish. Wednesday will have to prove that they can compete with these teams. Last season, the Owls lost key matches against United (0-1) and Burnley (1-3), highlighting the need to improve their performance against strong opponents.
The derby against Sheffield United in February 2026 will be an important event for the fans. Last season, Wednesday lost this match but showed character, which gives hope for revenge. Competition in the middle of the table, where Stoke City and Middlesbrough are located, will also be fierce, and the Owls must minimise points lost in such games.
