Derby County have been a club with a rich history and passionate fanbase, but as we look ahead to the 2025/26 Championship season, I’m not convinced they’ll be making the play-offs this time around. There are a few reasons why I believe Derby will fall short of that top-six finish.
First off, the squad lacks the depth needed to sustain a strong promotion push. Over recent seasons, Derby have struggled with injuries and a lack of quality options off the bench. When you’re aiming for a play-off spot, every game counts, and you need players who can step in and perform consistently. Unfortunately, the recruitment over the past year or so hasn’t addressed those weaknesses effectively. The team looks thin in key areas, especially in midfield and attack, where creativity and goal threat have been inconsistent.
Another factor is the instability in the management structure. Success in the Championship often comes down to having a clear, consistent vision and a manager who can inspire the squad through the tough grind of a long season. Derby have seen too much turnover in the dugout recently, which disrupts momentum and confidence. The current manager is still trying to stamp his authority and playing style on the team, but that takes time. Without a settled system and leadership, it’s difficult to string together the kind of form needed to break into the play-off places.
Financial constraints also play a role. Derby’s ongoing off-field challenges mean the club can’t compete with some of the Championship’s bigger spenders. Other teams have invested heavily in recruitment, bringing in experienced players hungry to get promoted, while Derby’s budget limitations mean they’re often forced to rely on loans or free transfers. This lack of investment shows on the pitch.
Finally, the competition in the Championship has never been tougher. Teams like Sunderland, Ipswich, and others are aggressively pushing for promotion, and Derby need to raise their game significantly just to keep pace. Until they find the right balance between squad quality, tactical stability, and financial backing, I don’t see them making the play-offs in 2025/26.
