Stoke City Aims to Climb the EFL Championship Table

Stoke City faces a critical juncture in its EFL Championship campaign, with the club aiming to break into the league's top positions. Despite a challenging start to the season, recent performances under manager Narcís Pelach have provided optimism for The Potters, who now sit in 13th place with 19 points from 15 matches.

READ MORE: Stoke City Prepares for Key November Matches Amidst International Break

A Positive Turnaround

After a tumultuous period under former manager Steven Schumacher, the arrival of Narcís Pelach has brought renewed energy to the team. Stoke City has displayed a winning mentality in recent matches, securing two wins and a draw in their last three games. This impressive form has lifted the club out of the relegation zone, where they found themselves early in the season.

Currently just six points behind Watford in sixth place—the final playoff position—Stoke City is poised to make a serious push for promotion if they can maintain their momentum.

Upcoming Fixtures: Opportunities to Advance

The upcoming international break provides a brief pause before Stoke City faces two crucial fixtures that could define their season.

1. November 23 - Queens Park Rangers (Away)QPR sits at the bottom of the table in 24th place with just 10 points. This presents a prime opportunity for Stoke City to secure a vital win against a struggling opponent.
2. November 26 - Preston North End (Home)Preston occupies 20th place with 15 points, narrowly avoiding the relegation zone thanks to goal difference. A victory in this match would not only solidify Stoke’s position but also bolster their playoff ambitions.

These fixtures are considered favorable for Stoke City, with both opponents struggling for form and confidence. However, Pelach and his squad must remain focused and capitalize on these chances to move closer to the league's top six.

The Path Forward

Narcís Pelach’s impact on Stoke City has been transformative, fostering a sense of unity and ambition within the squad. If The Potters can secure maximum points in these upcoming matches, they will solidify their status as playoff contenders, setting the stage for a potential return to the Premier League.

The challenge ahead is clear: Stoke City must continue to build on their recent success and demonstrate that they are capable of competing with the EFL Championship’s best.