Preparations are already well underway behind the scenes at Fratton Park as John Mousinho, Rich Hughes and Co plan for Pompey’s second-successive campaign back in the Championship.
There will be some familiar trips to the likes of QPR, Millwall, Oxford United, Swansea City and more, while Leicester City, Charlton Athletic, Wrexham, Ipswich Town and Wrexham are back in the calendar.
It doesn’t stop there for the Blues, with Mousinho’s men rekindling their rivalry with Southampton following their relegation from the Premier League.
After a 16th-placed finish last term, there is plenty of expectation going into the new season, which gets underway in August.
But where could Pompey 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 the Blues are expected to end the campaign.

9. 17th: Blackburn Rovers
Prediction: Tipped to drop to the bottom half due to financial constraints compared to relegated teams. | Getty Images

10. 16th: Stoke City
Prediction: Struggled recently, but their squad should keep them clear of relegation. | Getty Images
.jpg?crop=4:3&trim=&width=800)
11. 15th: Pompey
Some fans tip them for a surprise play-off push, but mid-table is more likely after securing safety last season. | Getty Images
.jpg?crop=4:3&trim=&width=800)
12. 14th: Swansea City
Prediction: Bookmakers predict a mid-table finish, and their squad should keep them safe. | Getty Images
.jpg?crop=3:2,smart&trim=&width=640&quality=70&enable=upscale)
