League Two Table Prediction: Winners, Playoffs, and Relegation Picks

As the summer transfer window enters its last 5 weeks, clubs prepare to embark on the 2025/26 League Two campaign, anticipation and speculation swirl around who will rise, who will fight for promotion, and who will struggle to avoid the drop. This season promises a gripping mix of seasoned promotion contenders, ambitious rebuilders, and relegation battlers, each shaped by last year’s highs and lows and the business done over the break. From MK Dons’ bold rebuilding under Paul Warne to Bristol Rovers’ structural reinvention with Darrell Clarke, and Chesterfield’s push to convert promise into silverware, the top of the table is set for an intriguing tussle. Meanwhile, clubs like Accrington Stanley and Newport County face uphill battles, grappling with limited resources and managerial upheaval.

In this comprehensive preview, we dive deep into each team’s summer activity, managerial strategies, and last season’s performances to explain our predictions for where they will finish. We also incorporate the latest outright odds from Coral to provide context on how the betting markets view this fiercely competitive division. Whether you’re a devoted fan, a fantasy manager, or a casual observer, this guide offers everything you need to know before the opening whistle.

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— Sky Bet League Two (@SkyBetLeagueTwo) July 19, 2025

MK Dons - Predicted finish: 1st Place

MK Dons endured a difficult 2024/25 campaign, finishing 19th in League Two and narrowly avoiding relegation. The season’s struggles exposed the need for fresh direction both on and off the pitch. In response, the club appointed Paul Warne as manager in April 2025, a move that has already sparked significant optimism among supporters and pundits alike. Warne, who boasts a strong record of guiding teams to promotion, immediately set about reshaping the squad during the summer transfer window, signalling clear ambition.

This summer, MK Dons made a number of key signings aimed at bolstering both their defensive stability and attacking potency. Aaron Collins arrived from Bolton Wanderers in a club-record deal reportedly around £800,000, bringing pace and goal-scoring threat to lead the frontline. Nathaniel Mendez-Laing was signed on a free transfer from Derby County, adding dynamism and width on the wings. Defensively, Gethin Jones joined from Bolton on a free, providing versatility and experience at the back. Further reinforcements included midfield stalwart Will Collar and goalkeeper Tom Finch, both secured on free transfers to add depth and competition in their positions. These acquisitions reflect a well-planned rebuild targeting promotion rather than mere survival. Coral’s betting markets echo this sentiment, pricing MK Dons at 7/2 to win League Two and 5/6 to finish in the top three, marking them as clear favorites to challenge at the summit. With Warne’s winning mentality and an influx of purposeful signings, MK Dons are well-positioned to recover from last season’s disappointment and assert themselves as genuine title contenders.

Your team to face Peterborough United at Stadium MK 🏠#COYD pic.twitter.com/yP4DR7Ob72

— Milton Keynes Dons (@MKDonsFC) July 22, 2025

Bristol Rovers - Predicted finish: 2nd Place

Bristol Rovers endured a difficult 2024/25 campaign in League One, eventually finishing 22nd and facing the heartbreak of relegation. The disappointment triggered a summer of dramatic change, as long-term manager Darrell Clarke returned to the club on 6 May 2025 following the departure of Inigo Calderon. Clarke, widely respected for guiding Rovers to promotion in 2015–16, has wasted no time rebuilding his squad to tackle the challenge of League Two.

Over the summer, Clarke has bolstered virtually every area of the pitch with shrewd, strategic signings. Jack Sparkes joined from Peterborough United on a free deal on 23 June, adding youthful energy and attacking threat down the left. Centre-back Alfie Kilgour re-signed on 1 July after a spell at Mansfield Town, bringing stability and familiarity to the heart of the defence. In midfield, Josh McEachran was signed from Oxford United on 1 July and joined by Coventry loanee Ryan Howley on 8 July, both offering steel and creativity in the middle of the park. Macauley Southam-Hales arrives on the right, also on a free from Stockport County, while competition between the sticks has been strengthened with the signings of Brad Young from Leicester and Luke Southwood from Bolton.

These additions mark a deliberate focus on strengthening the spine of the team — defence, midfield, and goalkeeping — rather than chasing expensive forwards. Clarke has clearly prioritized balance and organisation, rebuilding the core upon which promotion is often built. Coral’s betting markets reflect this cautious optimism, placing Rovers at 14/1 to win the league while giving them around 3/1 odds to finish in the top three. That positioning underscores the challenge faced: reshape the squad, out-muscle League Two rivals, and restore faith in a club shaken by relegation. With Clarke re-establishing structure and ambition, Bristol Rovers have a platform to relaunch their ascent — but the pressure to perform remains immense.

✍️ Bristol Rovers sign midfielder Ryan Howley on a two year contract.

The 21 year old was released by Coventry at the end of last season.

💬 Darrell Clarke: "He has a brilliant range of passing and likes to get on the ball..." pic.twitter.com/5z3krBQYd8

— BBC Sport Bristol (@bbcbristolsport) July 8, 2025

Chesterfield FC - Predicted finish: 3rd Place

After finishing 7th in League Two last season, Chesterfield fell short in the play-offs but showed plenty of promise under the experienced stewardship of Paul Cook. The Spireites looked well-drilled and dangerous going forward, but lacked the consistency to mount a serious automatic promotion challenge. With a solid first season back in the EFL after their National League title win, Cook and his staff have clearly used the summer to strengthen the side with a push for the top three firmly in mind.

Chesterfield’s transfer business this summer has been both smart and ambitious. The headline addition is striker Lee Bonis, signed from ADO Den Haag. The Northern Irishman is known for his physicality, pressing, and ability to score goals at key moments, and he’ll be expected to link up with veteran frontman Will Grigg in a potentially potent partnership. In midfield, they’ve added Ryan Stirk from Walsall and Dilan Markanday from Blackburn — two technically sound players who bring energy and creativity to the middle of the park. Between the sticks, Zach Hemming has arrived from Middlesbrough, offering a composed presence after excelling on loan spells elsewhere in recent seasons.

Perhaps most interesting, though, are the loan additions of Devan Tanton and Matt Dibley-Dias from Fulham. Both are highly regarded in the Cottagers’ system — Tanton, a versatile full-back with U.S. youth international experience, adds depth and dynamism on the right flank. Dibley-Dias, meanwhile, is a technically gifted midfielder who has been on the fringes of Fulham’s first team and could offer a creative spark and calmness in possession. These types of loans have the potential to be season-defining if the players settle quickly.

With Paul Cook’s experience at the helm and a bolstered squad filled with EFL experience and young talent, Chesterfield look like genuine promotion contenders. Coral currently have them priced at 15/2 to win the title and 13/8 for a top-three finish, underlining the growing belief that the Spireites are ready to push on and reclaim their place in League One.

🔍 With the 2025/26 campaign getting ever closer, we take a look at the other 23 League Two teams - continuing with Gillingham.

Read more here 🔽#Spireites

— Chesterfield FC (@ChesterfieldFC) July 22, 2025

Cambridge United - Predicted finish: 4th Place

Cambridge United were relegated from League One after a challenging 2024/25 season, finishing 23rd in the table. In response, the club appointed Neil Harris as manager on 19 February 2025. Harris brings a wealth of experience, having previously secured promotions from League Two with Millwall, and is tasked with steering the club back to League One.

The club's summer transfer activity reflects Harris's strategic approach to rebuilding the squad. Dominic Ball joined on a free transfer from Leyton Orient, bringing valuable EFL experience. Ben Purrington signed a one-year deal after his release from Exeter City, adding depth to the left-back position. Ben Hughes, a 21-year-old goalkeeper, was secured on a two-year contract following his departure from Swansea City. Additionally, winger Ben Knight joined on a one-year deal after his stint at Real Murcia.

These signings aim to strengthen key areas of the team, providing Harris with a balanced squad capable of competing for promotion. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, Cambridge United are poised to challenge for a top-seven finish in the upcoming season. Coral currently price them at around 6/1 to finish in the top seven, reflecting a market expectation that Harris’s rebuild will translate into a competitive push for the playoffs.

Walsall FC - Predicted finish: 5th Place

Walsall head into the 2025/26 League Two season buoyed by a strong campaign in 2024/25, where they secured 4th place and a playoff spot. Last season’s impressive finish set high expectations, and manager Mat Sadler has responded with a summer of strategic recruitment designed to consolidate their position as genuine promotion contenders.

The Saddlers have strengthened their squad significantly, blending experience and youth to address key areas. Aden Flint’s arrival brings leadership and physical presence at the heart of defence, bolstering a backline that was resolute but sometimes stretched last season. Midfield has been reinforced by Courtney Clarke, adding tenacity and energy, while Daniel Cox joins on loan from Derby County, offering defensive versatility. Harrison Burke’s addition enhances the defensive options also having signed from Chester.

On the offensive front, Aaron Pressley’s signing from Stevenage adds a hardworking striker with a nose for goal, complemented by Jonny Stuttle, who arrives on loan from AFC Bournemouth with pace and creativity on the wings. Goalkeeper Myles Roberts joins on loan from Watford, increasing competition between the sticks and adding reliability.

With this depth and quality, Walsall are well positioned to remain in the promotion hunt. Coral prices them at around 8/1 to finish 5th, reflecting market confidence in their ability to replicate or improve on last season’s performance. If Sadler can successfully integrate the new signings and maintain squad harmony, Walsall could be one of League Two’s most consistent challengers this season.

Crawley Town - Predicted finish: 6th Place

Crawley Town’s 2024/25 League One campaign was a difficult one, culminating in a 21st-place finish and relegation back to League Two. Scott Lindsey was appointed manager on March 25, 2024, tasked with steadying the ship and guiding the club through a challenging period. His leadership and knowledge of the squad provide Crawley with a solid base as they prepare for the challenges of League Two.

Over the summer, Crawley have been active in the transfer market, adding a mix of experience and potential. Key signings include midfielder Kyle Scott, winger Dion Pereira, and striker Kabongo Tshimanga, all bringing versatility and energy to the attacking options. Harry McKirdy and Louis Flower add further depth and creativity in midfield and forward roles. Young talents Danny Cashman and Harvey Davies have also joined to bolster the squad, while Jay Williams and Reece Brown bring experience and dynamism into the middle of the park.

Crawley’s recruitment strategy focuses on strengthening key positions to complement Lindsey’s tactical emphasis on a resilient and organised side. Coral currently price Crawley at around 14/1 to win League Two and 9/1 to finish in the top six, signalling market confidence that Lindsey’s squad can mount a credible promotion challenge. If the team gels quickly and maintains a strong defensive shape, Crawley look well placed to push for a playoff spot and beyond.

Swindon Town - Predicted finish: 7th Place

Swindon Town finished 12th in League Two in the 2024/25 season, falling short of the playoff places but showing signs of potential under the stewardship of their new manager Ian Holloway, who was appointed in October 2024. Holloway, a seasoned figure with extensive managerial experience across the Football League, has been tasked with revitalising the Robins and steering them toward a promotion push this season.

Since taking charge, Holloway has set about reshaping the squad to fit his pragmatic, attacking style. Swindon’s summer recruitment reflects this approach, with a raft of signings designed to add quality, depth, and versatility across all areas of the pitch. Experienced midfielder Darren Oldaker has joined to provide grit and industry in the middle of the park, while forward Tom Nichols brings proven goal-scoring ability and Championship experience. Billy Bodin adds creativity and pace on the flanks, with James Ball providing energy and leadership in midfield. Joe Snowdon also strengthens the midfield, offering central stability and composure.

Goalkeeper Lewis Ward strengthens the last line of defence, and young prospects such as Filozofe Mabete, Finley Munroe, Jake Tabor, Sonny Hart, Redman Evans, Dani Gonzalez, Antony McCormick, and George Alston have been brought in, illustrating a blend of youth and potential aimed at building for the future as well as the present.

Coral currently price Swindon at 11/1 to finish in the top seven, suggesting a belief that Holloway’s influence combined with the squad overhaul could see the Robins make a significant push for the playoffs. With experience now bolstered and youth infused into the squad, Swindon are well positioned to challenge in a highly competitive League Two.

Relegation Predictions

Now, let’s focus on the teams most likely to struggle and potentially face relegation from League Two in the 2025/26 season. Here are our picks for the sides battling to avoid the drop.

Accrington Stanley - Predicted finish: 23rd Place

Accrington Stanley narrowly escaped relegation in the 2024/25 League Two season, finishing 21st after a tense campaign that exposed the squad’s fragility. Manager John Doolan, appointed on March 22, 2024, has been tasked with steering the club away from the drop zone and building a more resilient side capable of handling League Two’s challenges.

However, the summer transfer window has seen relatively little activity, with only four signings made so far: Freddie Sass (23), a left-back expected to add solidity at the back; Isaac Sinclair (23), a right midfielder to provide width and energy; Oliver Wright (22) and James Rogerson (18), both goalkeepers aimed at bolstering options between the sticks. While these additions inject some youthful promise, the lack of experienced recruits may raise concerns among supporters, especially given the squad’s need for proven quality to avoid another struggle.

Coral price Accrington Stanley at 4/1 to be relegated, signalling a market expectation that the club faces a tough battle to maintain their League Two status. Without a more significant influx of experience and quality, Doolan’s side may find themselves in familiar territory come season’s end. Supporters will be hoping the existing squad can mature quickly and deliver the consistency required to defy the odds.

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— Accrington Stanley (@ASFCofficial) July 22, 2025

Newport County- Predicted finish: 24th Place

Newport County finished 21st in the 2024/25 League Two season, narrowly avoiding relegation but enduring a campaign that highlighted the need for change. In response, the club appointed David Hughes as manager in May 2025. Hughes brings valuable experience from his time coaching at Manchester United’s Under-21s and senior roles at Cardiff City and Southampton. His arrival signals Newport’s intent to rebuild and improve for the upcoming season.

On the pitch, Newport have refreshed their squad with a mixture of youth and experience to better cope with League Two’s challenges. Goalkeeper Nik Tzanev arrives from Northampton Town to bring stability between the posts, while centre-back Lee Jenkins joins from Haverfordwest County to bolster the defensive line. In attack, promising young striker Gerard Garner has been signed from Barrow, and Cardiff City loanee Michael Reindorf adds further options up front. The club also secured the loan signing of right-back Habeeb Ogunneye from Manchester United, injecting pace and potential down the flank. Additionally, five academy graduates — including Riley Lonergan in central midfield and Moses Alexander-Walker as a second striker — have signed their first professional contracts, adding depth and youthful energy across the squad.

Despite these additions, there remains concern over whether Newport have strengthened sufficiently to avoid another relegation battle. Coral price Newport County at 11/4 to be relegated, reflecting bookmakers’ doubts about their prospects this season. The task for Hughes and his squad will be to quickly gel and find consistency to defy these odds and retain their League Two status.

🗓️ 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓-𝟐𝟔 𝐅𝐢𝐱𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬

Check out Newport County’s full Sky Bet League Two schedule 👇#OneClubOneCounty pic.twitter.com/OTtIt6YeJY

— Newport County AFC (@NewportCounty) June 26, 2025

Final Thoughts

With the 2025/26 League Two campaign fast approaching, this summer’s transfer business has revealed plenty about each club’s ambitions. Cambridge United and Crawley Town are adjusting to life back in the fourth tier, while clubs like Walsall and Swindon Town have been busy strengthening their squads in search of a promotion push.

On the flip side, sides such as Accrington Stanley and Newport County face pressure to avoid another season battling at the bottom. Concerns around depth, experience, and recruitment could leave fans with more questions than answers heading into August.

Whether targeting the top or fighting to stay afloat, every club knows just how competitive League Two can be. With fresh faces in dugouts and dressing rooms alike, expect another season full of twists, turns, and tightly contested battles across the division.

Every #SkyBetLeagueTwo stadium for the 2025/26 season! 🏟️

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— Sky Bet League Two (@SkyBetLeagueTwo) July 7, 2025