The time for pre-season is over as clubs in England's fifth tier prepare for another blockbuster year of National League football. Big names will begin the campaign with sights firmly set on lifting the title in April, but who are the bookmakers favourites to be champions?
York City 7/4
Perhaps the biggest shock of last seasons play offs was York City's capitulation at home to Oldham Athletic in the semi-final. After an incredible 96 points posted in the regular season, many thought the Minstermen were destining for a return to fourth tier in May.
But it wasn't to be for Adam Hinshelwood's men, and it looks as though the York manager is doing everything he can to insure his side can go one further this term. Keeping hold of star players like Ollie Pearce and Joe Felix will give York fans a boost, while signings with football league experience like Olly Banks and Hiram Boateng demonstrate the team can not only replicate last season's points tally, but beat it.
Carlisle United 11/4
Carlisle suffered relegation from League 2 last season, plunging them back into the National League for the first time in over 20 years. They'll be hoping their stay will be as brief as possible, and early signs show they could make a quick exit.
Relegated teams rarely get promoted straight back up from the National League, but Carlisle are one of the few teams who have achieved this feat, doing so in 2005. Swiping Altrincham's sort-after forward Reagan Linney in May made a statement of intent for the Cumbrian side, and getting him scoring could be key to their title charge.
Really happy to sign for this massive club. The journey continues 💙
— Regan Linney (@ReganLinney1) May 31, 2025
Can’t wait to meet all the fans. Big season ahead ⚽️@officialcufc pic.twitter.com/XTfmuvFwno
Forest Green Rovers 8/1
Forest Green recorded a top three finish last campaign but couldn't finish strong enough to gain promotion via the play offs. Unlike York who stood by their boss, FGR made the contentious decision to sack manager Steve Cotterill and replace him with Robbie Savage.
Despite this managerial change, and the loss of some important players, Forest Green still sit in a good position coming into the 25/26 season. Smart signings and public backing from owner Dale Vincent will allow Savage and the vegan club to challenge at the top end of the table- even if they are ultimately outsiders to become champions.
Full list of Title Odds
York 7/4
Carlisle 11/4
Forest Green 8/1
Solihull 9/1
Southend 11/1
Rochdale 12/1
Hartlepool 33/1
Eastleigh 33/1
Scunthorpe 40/1
Gateshead 50/1
Sutton 50/1
Altrincham 50/1
Halifax 50/1
Tamworth 50/1
Yeovil 50/1
Boston 50/1
Morecambe 66/1
Woking 66/1
Aldershot 100/1
Braintree 100/1
Wealdstone 200/1
Brackley 200/1
Boreham Wood 200/1
Truro 200/1
Source: Oddschecker