League One 2026-27: Leicester's Reset Under Russell Martin
Leicester City, Premier League champions a decade ago, now face League One after mismanagement. New boss Russell Martin looks to youth to lead a promotion push.
A Fall from Grace: Leicester's Journey to the Third Tier
It is a startling sight: a club that lifted the Premier League trophy just a decade ago now preparing for life in England's third tier. Leicester City's slide has been dramatic, and according to the Guardian's League One 2026-27 preview, the root cause is clear — "chronic mismanagement across the board". The club has been struggling for too long, and now they face the ultimate test of their resilience.
The summer has seen a major overhaul. Many of the top earners have been shipped out, and the club has not brought in much new talent. However, the Guardian notes that "there remains enough quality to challenge at this level." The focus now turns to new manager Russell Martin, who has been tasked with resetting the club's direction and leading them back up the football pyramid.
Youth Movement: A Chance for the Next Generation
One of the most intriguing aspects of Leicester's new era is the emphasis on youth. With the departure of high-earning veterans, Martin has at his disposal "plenty of young talents who could finally be given their chance thanks to circumstance". This could be a defining season for the club's academy graduates, who may now step into prominent roles in the first team.
For a club of Leicester's stature, League One represents a significant challenge. The physicality and intensity of the division are well known, and adapting to that will be crucial. Yet, with a manager like Martin, known for his progressive ideas, there is optimism that the club can not only compete but also play attractive football.
The Contenders and Strugglers in League One
Leicester are not the only story in League One this season. The Guardian's preview highlights several clubs with contrasting ambitions. At one end, there are the hopefuls — teams like Sheffield Wednesday, who have made a notable signing in Louie Barry, celebrated alongside Owls legend Barry Bannon and goalscorer Jamal Lowe. Such additions suggest Wednesday are serious about pushing for promotion.
Meanwhile, Mansfield Town boast a veteran presence in 38-year-old striker David McGoldrick, whose experience could prove invaluable in tight matches. Oxford United, now managed by Aaron Ramsey, will also be looking to make their mark.
At the other end of the spectrum, the preview suggests it could be a tough campaign for Notts County and AFC Wimbledon, who may find themselves fighting at the bottom of the table.
What to Expect from Leicester This Season
For Leicester, the goal is clear: promotion. But the path will not be easy. The club must quickly gel under Martin's leadership, and the young players must step up to the demands of a gruelling 46-game season. The squad's quality, despite the departures, should give them an edge in most matches, but consistency will be key.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on the King Power Stadium to see if Leicester can begin their long road back to the Premier League. With Russell Martin at the helm and a youthful squad eager to prove themselves, there is reason for cautious optimism among the Foxes' faithful.
For fans of the division, this promises to be one of the most fascinating League One campaigns in years, with a fallen giant seeking redemption and a host of ambitious clubs ready to challenge.
