The race for the EFL Championship Manager of the Season is heating up, with Daniel Farke of Leeds United facing stiff competition from Scott Parker, Chris Wilder and Regis Le Bris for the coveted honour.
The quartet are recognised not only for their lofty league positions but for the significant impact they’ve made across an intense campaign. The winner will be unveiled at the EFL Awards in London on Sunday 27 April.
Farke has led Leeds through a stylish promotion bid with an attacking flair that has energised Elland Road and put them firmly in the automatic promotion race. His tactical nous and Championship experience have proved valuable assets during a pressure-packed campaign.
Parker, Wilder and Le Bris recognised for differing achievements
Burnley’s Parker, meanwhile, has built a team that thrives on defensive solidity. The Clarets have racked up 28 clean sheets this season — just one shy of setting a new EFL record. That consistency has put them in pole position for a top-two finish.
Chris Wilder deserves credit for keeping Sheffield United in contention despite their points deduction. His team have stayed focused under challenging circumstances and have remained within reach of automatic promotion throughout the campaign.
Completing the shortlist is Sunderland’s Le Bris, who has transformed the Black Cats from mid-table mediocrity to genuine promotion hopefuls. After finishing 16th last term, his influence has taken them into fourth place and firmly within the play-off picture.
Elsewhere, the Player of the Season shortlist includes Leeds’ Daniel James, Sheffield United’s Gustavo Hamer, and Burnley shot-stopper James Trafford. All three have played key roles in their sides’ successes.
League One and League Two List
In League One, Birmingham City’s Chris Davies heads a managerial shortlist also featuring Phil Parkinson, Nathan Jones and Richie Wellens. Wycombe striker Richard Kone, Barnsley’s Davis Keillor-Dunn and Birmingham’s Tomoki Iwata are nominated for the player award.
League Two sees managers Andy Woodman, Graham Alexander, Darren Moore and Mat Sadler recognised, while players Michael Cheek, Luke Molyneux and Nathan Lowe make up the shortlist in the fourth tier.
Writer’s view
Farke might be the headline act, but the managerial award could go to any of the four — each has a compelling case. Parker’s clean sheet tally is staggering, Wilder has navigated adversity with grit, and Le Bris has overseen a stunning turnaround. The EFL rarely lacks for drama, and this year’s accolades reflect that beautifully.
In the other divisions, it would be hard to look past Graham Alexander and Richie Wellens. The other three in League One have all had significant means.
