Wigan Athletic face a tough test as they travel to Oakwell to take on Barnsley FC in their opening League One match of the 2026-27 season. The Reds have been busy in the transfer market, signing several new players who are looking to make an impact in the league. Manager Daniel Stendel believes that his team's surprise factor can work in their favour, saying "This is what I said to the players. I think nobody expects that we will have a so much better season than the last season. But I said to the players - especially with some teams in this league and the ambitions to play in the Championship next year again - we can only surprise." The Reds have a number of young and up-and-coming players who are looking to make a name for themselves in the league. They will be hoping to catch Wigan Athletic off guard and get off to a strong start to the season. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 16th in League One, 56 pts, 14W-14D-18L from 46 games, recent form LLDWW. Goals this season: 49 scored, 58 conceded (-9 goal difference). Title race: 47 points behind leaders Lincoln. The match is set to be a closely contested affair, with both teams looking to make a strong start to the season. The Reds will be hoping to use their surprise factor to their advantage, while Wigan Athletic will be looking to use their experience and skill to get the better of their opponents. Several players including the likes of Arley Kay, Makenzie Kirk, Sam Gale and Amani Richards could be handed their competitive bows this afternoon. Cameron McGeehan, who has a strong chance of being handed the captain's armband in 26-27, is set for his second debut.