There are two requirements that must be fulfilled for Millwall FC to qualify for the Premier League next season.

After a late run that saw them win five of their final seven games, Millwall finished eighth in the 2024–25 Championship season, just outside of the play-offs.

 

Under Alex Neil, who calmed the ship in the middle of the season and created momentum with a youthful, motivated team, it was a campaign of resiliency and reinvention.

 

 

Rebuilding is no longer the main topic of discussion as the Lions focus on the 2025–2026 campaign.

 

This may be Millwall’s greatest chance for promotion in more than 20 years thanks to a stable manager, a unified playing identity, and an open Championship.

 

The problem is that teams from all around Europe are vying for two important players: forward Mihailo Ivanovic and defender Japhet Tanganga. Whether this campaign culminates in a historic return to the top flight or brings about another near-miss will depend on their futures.

 

To make a credible promotion bid, Millwall needs to hold onto Mihailo Ivanovic and Japhet Tanganga. Millwall’s Japhet Tanganga in action

The fact that Millwall’s improvement coincided with Japhet Tanganga and Mihailo Ivanovic’s growth last season is no accident.

 

Tanganga has established himself as a defensive fixture at The Den after joining from Tottenham Hotspur. Having made 43 appearances across all competitions, he provided leadership, physical presence, and consistency.

 

Crystal Palace, all three promoted Premier League teams, as well as teams in Germany and France, have reportedly expressed interest in Millwall’s 2024–25 Player of the Season.

 

Ivanovic’s rise in attack was even more remarkable. After joining from Vojvodina, the 20-year-old Serbian striker flourished under Alex Neil, tallying 12 goals in 23 Championship appearances throughout the season.

 

With six goals in the season’s last seven games, he nearly single-handedly propelled Millwall into the top six debate.

 

Ivanovic shown why a number of elite teams, notably Parma, who reportedly tabled a €10 million proposal, are keenly observing his development. He is quick, strong, and composed beyond his years.

 

Although manager Alex Neil has stated that the team is not actively seeking to sell either player, rumors will continue until the transfer market ends, so the Lions must remain steadfast.

Tanganga and Ivanovic are difficult to duplicate, and selling now would leave little time to locate appropriate replacements.

 

To put it briefly, keeping them is not only crucial, but also vital.

 

Why Millwall may have its greatest chance at promotion in years during the 2025–2026 season

Millwall vs. Luton Town is scored by Mihailo Ivanovic.

 

Seldom has the Championship been so transparent. Since no clear-cut leaders are anticipated, well-organized, aspirational clubs are free to compete for promotion. Under Alex Neil, Millwall currently fits that description.

Neil’s ability to develop players and his tactical precision are already paying off. Prior to the first game away at Norwich City on August 9, he has discussed adding more quality and finalized the signings for Josh Coburn and Zak Sturge.

 

Importantly, though, Millwall is no longer a side in flux. They already have match-winners and are steadily getting better.

Because momentum is difficult to gain and quickly lost in football, timing is crucial. The team’s heartbreaking loss to Burnley on the last day served as both a reminder of how narrow the margins are and evidence that they should be discussed.

 

They have an experienced management, a motivated team, and supporters who are eager for the team to advance.

 

However, it will feel like a step backward at the wrong time if Tanganga and Ivanovic leave, especially if they do so late in the window. Retaining them conveys conviction, drive, and a readiness to support Neil’s endeavor.

 

Millwall has previously come quite close. If they have the guts to cling onto what they’ve created, they could be ready this time.