The 2024/25 Championship season is well underway, and it’s been a wild ride so far. Teams tipped for promotion are languishing near the bottom, while unexpected contenders are rising to the top. Here’s a breakdown of the biggest storylines so far:
Sunderland’s Unexpected Rise
Sunderland, who finished a disappointing 16th last season, are currently sitting comfortably at the top of the table, five points clear of the chasing pack. This remarkable turnaround is largely attributed to their new manager, Regis Le Bris. The Frenchman has injected a fresh energy into the team, bringing a new style of play and inspiring a youthful exuberance. With a talented core of young players like Jobe Bellingham, Dan Neil, and Chris Rigg, Sunderland are a force to be reckoned with.
The Relegated Trio: Mixed Fortunes
While Sunderland is enjoying a resurgence, the three relegated teams from last season have had mixed results. Burnley and Sheffield United are both challenging for an immediate return to the Premier League. Burnley, under Scott Parker, are playing with a steady consistency, while Sheffield United, despite a two-point deduction, have been formidable, particularly at home. However, the Blades suffered a setback following the heartbreaking news of George Baldock’s passing.
On the other hand, Luton Town, who put up a valiant fight during their brief stint in the Premier League, have struggled to adapt to life back in the Championship. They’ve only managed three wins in twelve games and are currently in the relegation zone. Manager Rob Edwards is searching for the right formula, but patience is wearing thin among the fans.
Leeds United’s Rebound
Despite a summer fire sale that saw several key players depart, Leeds United have shown resilience under Daniel Farke. They’ve managed to stay competitive and are in the hunt for a return to the top flight. While a string of draws has hampered their progress, Leeds are steadily building momentum and are showing signs of their old form.
Norwich’s Rising Star: Borja Sainz
One of the biggest surprises of the season has been the emergence of Borja Sainz at Norwich City. After a frustrating injury-hit start to his Norwich career, Sainz has exploded onto the scene, scoring ten goals in just twelve games. The 23-year-old winger is a genuine game-changer, and his performances have caught the eye of several Premier League clubs.
Portsmouth’s Struggle
The Championship can be unpredictable, and this season has shown just that. Portsmouth, who were promoted as champions last season, have struggled to find their footing in the higher division. They’ve failed to win any of their first nine games and are currently at the bottom of the table. While a tough fixture list has not helped, their confidence has taken a significant hit. Their rivals, Derby and Oxford, have started relatively well, showing promise for a successful season in the Championship.
The 2024/25 Championship season is still young, but it’s already provided plenty of drama and excitement. With so many twists and turns already, it’s impossible to predict what will happen next. Will Sunderland maintain their top spot? Can Luton turn things around? And will Norwich’s young star continue to shine? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for more Championship updates.
