Planning is already well underway behind the scenes at Deepdale as Paul Heckingbottom prepares for his first summer transfer window in charge.
There will be some familiar trips to the likes of Middlesbrough, Stoke City, Derby County, Sheffield Wednesday and more, while Leicester City, Charlton Athletic, Wrexham, Ipswich Town, Wrexham and Southampton are back in the calendar.
The Lilywhites have signed Jordan Thompson and Daniel Iversen as they look to improve on their 20th-placed finish last term.
But where could PNE finish?
Well, we’ve taken to the world of AI, specifically X’s Grok tool, to predict the final 2025-26 Championship standings. Here where North End are expected to end the campaign.
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5. 5th: Coventry City
Prediction: Under Frank Lampard, they have a solid foundation and attacking options, making them play-off contenders again after a strong 2024/25. | Getty Images
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6. 6th: Birmingham City
Prediction: Their record-breaking 111-point League One season and significant financial backing make them a surprise play-off contender, though top-two may be a stretch. | Getty Images
7. 7th: Middlesbrough
Prediction: Tipped for a top-six finish, their consistent squad and recent form suggest a strong season. | Getty Images
8. 8th: Norwich City
Prediction: A historically strong Championship side with play-off pedigree, likely to finish in the upper mid-table. | Getty Images