After the 3-1 loss to Southampton, some Stoke City fans are already at panic stations for the 2026/27 season. The result followed the 2-1 defeat to Swansea City on the opening day, and many might already be concerned about whether it’s a sign of things to come.
Having finished 17th in the table last season and ended the campaign with four defeats in a row, enduring two losses to kick off the new Championship term is hardly a confidence boost. Mark Robins maintains that his side are good enough to turn things around – but is there clear cause for concern right now?
No need to panic yet
There’s no escaping that performances have been poor so far. Although Stoke beat Oldham in the EFL Cup and took the lead against Swansea, there’s not been much to celebrate since then, with the Potters failing to dominate the ball in either Championship match and looking more toothless than the opposition in attack.
However, perspective remains important. The 2026/27 season is very much in its infancy, and there are several months left for Stoke to improve. Factor in that one of those two matches was against promotion-chasing Southampton, and there are still plenty of winnable games left to play.
Bookmakers currently have Robins’ side at 7/1 to be relegated this season, which puts the team clear of other sides considered favourites for the drop like Lincoln City, Preston, and Bolton. Many fans will be keeping up to date with the latest odds, and with offers such as a UK betfred promo code available, several will also be considering placing wagers on Stoke throughout the season.
Defensive setup exploited by Southampton
While Stoke’s attack might leave a little to be desired, the bigger concern will be the team’s defensive record. Conceding five times in two matches is deeply concerning, and Southampton arguably highlighted a significant issue Robins needs to iron out.
Stoke played with a high defensive line against the Saints, and the opposition capitalised on it over 90 minutes. Cyle Larin’s opening strike came from a counter-attack as the ball was played in behind the defence, and the striker made no mistake.
Another warning sign came before Divin Mubama’s 89th-minute finish, as Stoke broke away and Larin attempted to beat Viktor Johansson at his near post. And while the third goal might have been a spot-kick from Ryan Manning, it was conceded as Stoke once again were playing a high line which allowed for a run in behind.
It’s a tactic which the Potters seem ill-equipped to play, especially against some of the better teams in the division who have the pace and discipline to beat an offside trap. Management will need to re-evaluate that, or matters could become more troublesome.
Key upcoming fixtures for Stoke
Stoke are now entering an important period of their season, where getting off the mark becomes vital to avoid a real crisis in confidence. After the fixture against Wolves, there are winnable games against Norwich and Charlton, with the former also making a winless start to the season.
Cardiff, Watford and Sheffield United then follow, before stock is taken during the international break. If Stoke are still struggling come the end of September, then it will be more difficult to ignore the issues surrounding the team.
