Schalke, Elversberg and Paderborn prepare for the 2026/27 Bundesliga season

Schalke, Elversberg and Paderborn enter the 2026/27 Bundesliga campaign with distinct paths to the top flight. Schalke returns as the 2. Bundesliga champion, ending a three-year absence from Germany’s highest league. Elversberg secured promotion for the first time in their history after finishing as league runners-up. Paderborn claimed the final spot after a 2-1 victory over Wolfsburg in the promotion/relegation play-off. While historical data suggests a 60% survival rate for promoted teams over the last five seasons, these clubs face differing logistical and financial challenges. Paderborn seeks its first successful survival attempt in three attempts, while Elversberg continues an upward trajectory that began in the lower divisions only three years ago. The newcomers now prepare to implement their recruitment and tactical strategies to maintain their top-flight status.

• 12:40 PMYahoo Sports — Schalke, Elversberg and Paderborn: Can the Bundesliga’s promoted clubs survive in 2026/27?