Bolton Wanderers are preparing for life in the Championship following their promotion from League One. It was a frustrating season for Bolton as they finished fifth in League One, significantly behind automatically promoted pair Lincoln City and Cardiff City, but after beating Bradford City in their play-off semi-final, they sealed their return to the Championship with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Stockport County in the final at Wembley.
What happened?
Bolton Wanderers head coach Steven Schumacher has expressed frustration over the team's transfer update, with just over two weeks to go until the start of the new season in the Championship. Speaking after his side's 1-1 pre-season draw at Fleetwood Town on Tuesday night, Schumacher gave a blunt response when asked if any deals were imminent, saying: "No, nothing. No news".
Why it matters for Bolton Wanderers
The Trotters have brought in six new signings so far this summer, but a host of departures mean that the squad is still light in certain areas. Jordi Osei-Tutu, George Johnson, Kyle Dempsey, and Carlos Mendes Gomes were among the high-profile names released at the end of their contracts, while influential loanees Amario Cozier-Duberry, Ibrahim Cissoko, Johnny Kenny, and Mason Burstow have returned to their parent clubs.
What comes next?
With just over two weeks to go until the start of the new season, there is plenty of work for Wanderers to do in the transfer market. Schumacher's comments have sparked concern among fans, but the head coach remains optimistic about the team's chances in the Championship. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 5th in League One, 75 pts, 19W-18D-9L from 46 games, recent form LDDWL. Goals this season: 70 scored, 52 conceded (+18 goal difference). Title race: 28 points behind leaders Lincoln.
