Bolton Wanderers manager Steven Schumacher believes keeping the club in the Championship would be a success. The Trotters secured promotion to the second tier after beating Stockport County 4-1 in the League One play-off final in May.

What's the goal for Bolton Wanderers?

Schumacher said the focus immediately turned to Championship survival within 48 hours of lifting the trophy at Wembley Stadium.

The 42-year-old manager described the day as one the fans will "remember for ever". But he knows the challenge ahead.

The road to survival

Bolton Wanderers have already signed two players in the summer transfer window, bringing in defender Ben Davies from Rangers and Scotland Under-21 midfielder David Watson.

PlayerPositionFormer Club
Ben DaviesDefenderRangers
David WatsonMidfielderScotland Under-21

Schumacher said the most important thing is to get a squad that's capable of competing at this level.

The challenge ahead

Bolton Wanderers will start their Championship season with an enticing Lancashire derby at home to Preston North End on Saturday, 15 August.

As of the end of the 2025-26 season, Bolton Wanderers stood at 5th in League One, with 75 points from 46 games, having scored 70 goals and conceded 52. They finished 28 points behind leaders Lincoln.

The Trotters are ready for the challenge, and Schumacher is confident they can sustain themselves in the Championship.