Cheltenham Town’s new managing director James Watts has laid out his blueprint to take the League Two club to new heights after a challenging 2025-26 season. The Robins finished 18th in League Two on 52 points, 35 behind runaway leaders Bromley, and now Watts is determined to build on that foundation.
What does Watts want to achieve?
Watts, who took charge in the summer of 2026, insists the club’s ambitions must match its growing profile. He pointed to the club’s recent form as proof that progress is possible, even after a run of five straight defeats that included a heavy 4-1 loss at home to Colchester United on 2 May 2026. The side scored just 53 goals all season while conceding 79, leaving them with a goal difference of minus 26. Yet Watts sees potential in the squad’s youth and the club’s rising reputation under his leadership.
Why this matters for Cheltenham
The 2025-26 season ended with Cheltenham rooted in mid-table obscurity, but Watts frames that as a starting point rather than a ceiling. He highlighted the need to strengthen the squad and improve defensive solidity, areas laid bare by the club’s leaky record. With the new season yet to begin, the club’s hierarchy is already eyeing upgrades to both the playing staff and the infrastructure. The message is clear: Cheltenham will no longer settle for survival.
How will the changes take shape?
Watts has promised a clear pathway for young talent while targeting shrewd signings to tighten the defence. The club’s recent form - five losses in a row before the season ended - showed where improvements are urgent. His vision includes better recruitment processes and closer ties with local football networks to unearth hidden gems. The goal is to turn Cheltenham into a club that competes, not just participates, in League Two.
Cheltenham Town finished 18th in League Two in 2025-26 with 52 points, 35 adrift of Bromley, and lost five on the bounce before the season closed. The club scored 53 goals and conceded 79, leaving them with a goal difference of minus 26.
