Bristol City begin a new era on Saturday 9 August when they travel to face promotion hopefuls Sheffield United on the opening day of the season, in a repeat of last season’s play-off semi-final.
Well-traveled former Barnsley and New York Red Bulls boss Gerhard Struber is the man tasked with replacing Liam Manning in the Ashton Gate dugout as he looks to build on the success of the 39-year-old after his intriguing decision to swap the South West of England for a move back to his hometown in Norfolk with Norwich City.
Last season was statistically Bristol City’s best in terms of league position since returning to the second tier in 2015 and marked the club’s first genuine attempt to win promotion since Gary Johnson’s side reached the play-off final in 2008.
The Robins will have high hopes of once again being in the mix this season, but will have their work cut out amid strong competitions from relegated trio Southampton, Leicester City and Ipswich Town as well as the usual contenders such as Sheffield United, Coventry City, West Brom and others.
There’s also plenty of intrigue surrounding Manning’s Norwich in his debut season at Carrow Road and whether Wrexham and Birmingham City after winning promotion can make it back-to-back, or even four in a row in the case of the former.
With that in mind, we take a look at the bookmakers' predicted Championship table at this stage and where Bristol City are tipped to finish in Struber’s first season in the South West.
9. Wrexham
Newly promoted Wrexham recently became the first team in history to win three consecutive promotions and they'll hope to take that momentum into the new season at Championship level. They have a big budget at their disposal and are seen as outsiders for a play-off place finish. | Getty Images
10. West Brom
Ryan Mason leads West Brom into the new season after replacing Tony Mowbray and has a big task on his hands to try and lead the Baggies back into the top-flight for the first time since 2021. | Getty Images
11. Stoke City
Former Coventry City boss Mark Robins has a strong record at Championship level and is expected to improve Stoke City's fortunes after a difficult period for the club in recent years. | Getty Images
12. Watford
Paulo Pezzolano is the latest in a long line of Watford managers and he'll hope to try and get the Hornets back in contention for a place in the Premier League. | Getty Images