squad rebuilding

Stoke City Left Shattered: Nine Key Departures Leave Skeleton Squad at the Edge of the Summer Transfer Window

May 13, 2025 RAYMOND 0

Mark Robins faces a significant challenge in his first summer transfer window as Stoke City manager. Early moves have already been made, with five loan players returning to their parent clubs and four senior players being released. Meanwhile, three players have signed new deals, and another has been offered an extension. The club expects more departures in the coming weeks, including Ryan Mmaee, Andre Vidigal, and Niall Ennis, and may even look to sell players if needed.

Despite these changes, Stoke’s current squad is relatively strong, with 21 players who have started league games remaining, along with 13 young players who have been in the matchday squad. The real challenge for Robins, alongside Jon Walters and Ian Torrance, will be upgrading squad players into starters rather than simply replacing like for like. With a solid base in place, Robins will look to strengthen and build a competitive side for the upcoming season.

Sheffield Wednesday’s Hidden Core: The 16 Players Staying Next Season – and the Clock Ticking on Their Contracts

May 10, 2025 RAYMOND 0

Sheffield Wednesday face a summer of significant change with just 16 first-team players contracted for the upcoming season, and six of them aged 21 or younger. The club is set for another major rebuilding job, with at least 16 players seeing their contracts expire, including Ryo Hatsuse, whose deal ends in June. The Owls currently lack the depth to field a full matchday squad without relying on their youth system, highlighting the urgent need for fresh signings.

Among the players confirmed for next season, Pierce Charles has committed to a long-term deal, while Di’Shon Bernard will remain until 2027. Veteran defender Dominic Iorfa has one year left, aiming to hit 200 club appearances. Max Lowe, a key figure in the squad, signed a two-year contract, and Yan Valery, who impressed in his first season, is contracted for three more years.

As the squad takes shape for the 2025/26 campaign, Sheffield Wednesday’s management, whether under Danny Röhl or a new head coach, will face a busy period of squad building and potential contract extensions.