It’s been a whirlwind 12 months for Derby County. From the tension of a final-day relegation escape in the 2024-25 season to the thrill of narrowly missing out on the play-offs this time around, the Rams have shown they’re on the rise. The question now is: can they make the leap to genuine promotion contenders next season?

Head coach John Eustace certainly thinks so. In his final interview of the campaign, he didn’t just promise hard work—he set his sights high. “A top-two finish and automatic promotion has to be our target,” he said, emphasizing that “quality” new recruits will be essential to turn that ambition into reality.

For Derby fans, this feels like a pivotal moment. The squad has grit and momentum, but to break into the top six—and beyond—they’ll need to address key areas. A proven goalscorer, a creative midfield spark, and defensive depth could be the difference between falling short and going all the way.

As the summer transfer window approaches, the Rams faithful know that smart signings and a strong pre-season will be crucial. Whether it’s a loan star from the Premier League or a seasoned Championship battler, one thing is clear: Derby’s journey from survival to promotion is just getting started.