Birmingham vs Wolves - Championship

The history between Birmingham and Wolves lends this Championship fixture an extra layer of spice, and when the two walk out at St. Andrew's @ Knighthead Park on September 6, 2026, recent encounters will be on everyone's mind. The 74-year-old Hoops boss admitted that "it'll be a bit strange not having the (Celtic) fans in but I'm nervously and excitedly looking forward to it; it's a great fixture" and also spoke about the police visit.

There is little to choose between Birmingham and Wolves on paper, and the Championship encounter should reflect that balance. The hosts have done enough without setting the world alight, DWLDD over their last five and a 43.48% win rate to their name. Wolves have struggled to string results together away from home, WLWDL over their last five with a win rate of 30.43%. The contrast in attacking output — 1.7 versus 1.2 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. If the recent winter window is anything to go off, meanwhile, United are once again unlikely to spend big for reinforcement half-way through the season.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. Birmingham will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Wolves will back themselves to cause problems on the break. Andoni Iraola could not have been clearer about how he plans to change Liverpool when speaking in his opening press conference.

With C. Larin leading the league's scoring charts at 7 goals, the contest is unlikely to be short of attacking intent. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. The club are making progress in their efforts to sign the Lille midfielder, who will arrive regardless of any departures.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 2-2 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. The result at St. Andrew's @ Knighthead Park could resonate well beyond matchday in the Championship picture. Manchester City will begin another Premier League season with major uncertainty hanging over the club after league chief executive Richard Masters admitted the long-awaited verdict on their financial case has taken longer than expected.