Sheffield United, Bristol City Debut New Managers Championship Season

Sheffield United and Bristol City kick off the 2025/26 Championship season with new managers Ruben Selles and Gerhard Struber, respectively, facing each other in a much-anticipated match at Bramall Lane. Both clubs experienced significant changes over the summer, with Sheffield United replacing Chris Wilder, a cult figure who led the club to promotion twice, amid differing visions with new owners, while Bristol City transitions from Liam Manning's possession-focused style to Struber's high-pressing, high-tempo football. Sheffield United enters the match as slight favorites, having dominated their recent encounters, including a 6-0 aggregate win in last season’s play-off semi-finals, but concerns linger over the Blades’ early-season form and squad changes, including the sale of key defenders. Bristol City will be without key midfielders Joe Williams and Max Bird due to injuries, impacting their initial lineup. The game represents a fresh start for both teams, with optimism tempered by the challenges of adapting to new leadership and tactical systems amid the competitive Championship environment. Fans and analysts alike are keen to see how these managerial changes manifest on the pitch in what promises to be a tactical and emotionally charged encounter.