Several clubs in the National League are entering the 2026-27 season with renewed ambitions following significant squad and managerial changes over the summer.

Hartlepool United, recently taken over by American businessman Landon Smith in January, has embarked on a substantial rebuild. Under new manager Lee Clark, who returns to English football after six years, the club has recruited high-profile signings including former Premier League forward Jordan Hugill, along with Jack Nolan and Will Harris, both proven goal scorers at this level. Hartlepool’s early fixtures include home clashes with Barrow and away games against Aldershot and Sutton. The club’s supporters harbor hopes of a promotion challenge after a period marked by instability and middling league finishes since their return to the National League in 2023.

Promoted side Hornchurch, managed by Daryl McMahon, prepare for their inaugural National League campaign with a focus on adapting to a newly professional setup. The Essex club achieved promotion through the National League South play-offs last season and have since transitioned to full-time status, leading to departures of some part-time players. McMahon has supplemented his squad with experienced signings such as midfielder Jack Powell and defenders Ryan Inniss and Jack Baldwin. Although early-season odds rate them as relegation candidates, Hornchurch are confident they can defy expectations.

Kidderminster Harriers face a rebuilding season following the departure of manager Adam Murray to Barrow, with Paul Wotton stepping up to fill the vacancy. After a brief return to the National League last season ended in relegation, the club has seen key players leave. The Harriers have brought back Zak Brown and added additions including Lewis Walker and Cian Harries, aiming primarily for league survival. Their first three fixtures include matches against Hornchurch, Eastleigh, and Aldershot.

Scunthorpe United, having secured back-to-back promotions and a play-off semi-final place, have experienced off-field turmoil in recent years but appear stabilized under Andy Butler. Despite losing top scorer Callum Roberts to Notts County and midfielder Oli Ewing to Forest Green Rovers, Scunthorpe have signed midfielder Jordan Richards and defender Callum Howe, both with promotion-winning experience. Early fixtures include home matches against Yeovil, Southend, and Eastleigh as the club pushes to regain its Football League status.

Solihull Moors appointed Chris Millington last October and credit him with a significant turnaround that lifted them from relegation danger to mid-table safety. The West Midlands club have strengthened by securing Joe Sbarra permanently, adding midfielder Jamie Andrews, and signing young talents like Rio Shipston and Tyrell Warren. Despite low betting odds, the Moors hope to build on last season’s recovery.

Southend United enter the season under new manager Kieron Dyer, following the departure of Kevin Maher and a near-complete squad overhaul. The Shrimpers lost several experienced players but have brought in National League winners and young prospects, including Anthony Hartigan, Darren Oldaker, and Ryan Colclough. Southend’s initial fixtures feature matches against Altrincham, Scunthorpe, and Solihull Moors, with expectations cautiously optimistic after a sixth-place finish last term.

Sutton United underwent managerial change last season, with Chris Agutter replacing Steve Morison after a poor start. Sutton finished 19th overall but are aiming for improvement through new signings such as Charlie Carter, Will Nightingale, Jordan Moore-Taylor, and attacking additions Temi Babalola and Sam Folarin. The club’s first three matches are against Woking, Altrincham, and Hartlepool.

Tamworth, under long-serving manager Andy Peaks and new ownership by Dawn Group International, aim to consolidate their place in the National League after back-to-back promotions. The club has added experience with signings like Tom Parkes and Morgan Roberts while maintaining financial prudence. Their opening fixtures include trips to Boreham Wood and FC Halifax, with a home match against AFC Fylde.

Wealdstone, managed by Gary Waddock since February, seek to improve on mid-table finishes of recent years. Despite the loss of defender Deon Woodman to Bromley, the club has recruited midfielders Jayden Harris and Aaron Henry, along with wing-backs Joe Newton and Kyle Smith, aiming for a strong start to build momentum.

Woking have experienced turmoil following the abrupt departure of head coach Jermain Defoe just weeks before the season. Interim managers Craig Ross and Jake Hyde now lead a squad reinforced with forwards Josh Kelly, Sean Adarkwa, and Liam Dulson, among others. The Cards open with fixtures against Sutton United, Gateshead, and AFC Fylde.

Worthing embark on their first season in the National League, facing a challenging start with an opening 700-mile trip to Carlisle. Manager Adam Hinshelwood has retained much of last season’s promotion-winning squad while adding experience through signings such as Ashley Nathaniel-George, Noor Husin, and Dom Hutchinson. The club continues to benefit from the leadership of owner George Dowell, who has overseen a remarkable rise through the leagues.

Finally, Yeovil Town have completely overhauled their squad following a 16th-place finish last season. Under manager Billy Rowley, appointed late last year, the Glovers have signed a significant number of players, including midfielder Zain Westbrooke, defender Jack Kingdon, and forward Slavi Spasov. Early fixtures will test Yeovil’s cohesion as they aim to improve on last season’s performance.

Overall, the National League’s 2026-27 season begins with a blend of fresh ambitions, managerial changes, and squad rebuilds, promising competitive action as clubs seek promotion, survival, or consolidation.