Millwall might not be everyone’s first pick for promotion – but under Alex Neil, they could be the Championship’s biggest surprise package.
After narrowly missing out on the play-offs in 2024/25, the Lions have all the ingredients to mount a serious challenge next season. Here’s why they might just be the division’s dark horses.
Proven Promotion Pedigree
Let’s start with the man in the dugout. Alex Neil is no stranger to success in the Championship. He took Norwich City to the Premier League via the play-offs in 2015 and helped Sunderland escape League One with a similar feat in 2022. He even guided Hamilton Academical to promotion in Scotland back in 2014. In short, Neil knows exactly what it takes to win under pressure and build squads capable of handling the demands of a full campaign.
Since arriving at The Den, Neil has not only steadied the ship but improved performances noticeably. Millwall ended the season just two points off the top six, having won eight of their final 12 matches. That surge in form was a clear sign of momentum—and in the Championship, momentum is everything.
A Project, Not a Panic Buy
What sets Millwall apart this time around is the approach. Neil himself has stated that, unlike his spells at Norwich or Sunderland where promotion was a short-term expectation, this is a longer-term project—more akin to what he attempted at Preston North End. The focus is on steady progress, intelligent recruitment, and clarity of vision.
That vision is shared off the pitch too. The club extended Neil’s contract at the end of the season, a show of faith in his leadership. Fans have responded in kind, with many praising the sense of direction and organisation now evident at the club. There’s no talk of overnight miracles—just a patient, professional build toward sustainable success.
Youthful Energy Meets Experienced Hands
Millwall’s progress has also been helped by a blend of youthful enthusiasm and experienced leadership. Players like Ra’ees Bangura-Williams represent the future, exciting young talents breaking through the ranks. At the same time, seasoned campaigners offer a crucial spine to the team, providing the consistency required to turn mid-table solidity into a top-six push.
This mix gives Neil the tactical flexibility he thrives on. He’s known for setting up compact, organised teams with a competitive edge, but he’s also willing to adapt formations and gameplans to suit the opposition. With a full summer to mould the squad, expect Millwall to be even more tactically cohesive in 2025/26.
The Den Factor
Let’s not forget the impact of The Den. Few grounds in the Championship create the same intensity. Visiting teams don’t just play Millwall—they face the atmosphere. When that’s paired with a confident, aggressive side playing with identity, it becomes a fortress. Under Neil, Millwall are beginning to rediscover that identity.
The fans have sensed it too. BBC Sport’s summer fan feedback saw supporters praise Neil’s understanding of the club’s ethos and his ability to connect with both players and supporters. “He understands the club,” wrote one fan. Another said, “He has all the attributes necessary to enable Millwall to realise their ambitions.” In a division where club and coach synergy often proves decisive, that connection could be vital.
Learning from the Near Miss
Missing the play-offs on the final day, despite a valiant effort, could have been a bitter blow—but in this case, it’s become fuel. Millwall’s 3-1 defeat to Burnley on the final weekend was a harsh end, but it exposed exactly what still needs improvement: squad depth, defensive control, and game management under pressure.
Neil will now have the summer to address those gaps. Already, he’s spoken about building a team in his own image. That means players who press high, remain organised, and know how to win ugly. It may not always be beautiful—but it’s effective.
Conclusion
No one’s saying Millwall are favourites for promotion—but they don’t have to be. The Championship rewards resilience, structure, and belief over hype and headline signings. And right now, the Lions have all three. With Neil at the helm, a promising core, and a renewed sense of purpose, Millwall are quietly laying the groundwork for something special. Ignore them at your peril.
