Since their historic promotion through the League Two play-offs in 2013, Bradford City has seen ups and downs in their recent history. They haven’t returned to League One since 2019.
League One was where the Bantams played for six seasons. Even though they advanced to the 2017 play-off final and were frequently in the middle of the table or in the running for promotion during that time, they were unable to secure a return to the Championship.
Despite their reputation as maybe the biggest and best-supported team in the division, Bradford has been stranded in League Two for five seasons since their relegation in 2019. With Valley Parade often drawing some of the league’s largest crowds, the supporters have stayed upbeat.
However, frustration has resulted from numerous near-misses in the competition for promotion. Now, Bradford is in yet another pivotal season under Graham Alexander’s direction. Although the team has spent a large portion of the 2024–25 season hovering between seventh and thirteenth, Alexander will be eager to achieve success.
The impetus is on to establish consistency and aim for a top-three finish because automatic promotion is still possible. A club of Bradford’s size and desire will probably view anything less than promotion as yet another lost chance. Naturally, fourth-tier clubs have a high player turnover rate, which makes it challenging for many clubs to develop.
After signing short-term contracts that expire in the next month, players like Paul Huntington and Corry Evans may be leaving soon. Additionally, Bradford may want to sign some of the five loanees—Oliver Sanderson, Chieck Diabate, Jay Benn, Joe Adams, and Jack Shepherd—on a permanent basis.
They will have to make decisions on numerous players in the near future, with no fewer than 12 players out of contract at the end of the 2024/25 season. Here, we outline the seven players set to leave at the end of this season, as per Transfermarkt.
Jamie Walker
Jamie Walker was signed from Hearts in Scotland in January 2022, bringing experience from Scotland’s top tier. A versatile attacking midfielder, Walker primarily operates as a No.10 but can also play out wide. His technical ability and vision make him a creative force for Bradford in both central and wide attacking roles and make him one of the key players.
Sam Walker
Sam Walker is a towering and experienced goalkeeper. He was signed after a short stint with Charlton after leaving Kilmarnock in the summer of 2024. Standing at 6’6″, Walker commands his box with authority and excels in aerial duels. His imposing presence between the sticks has made him a fairly reliable option for Bradford in the last year.
Vadaine Oliver
Vadaine Oliver was signed from Gillingham in the summer of 2022. A powerful centre-forward, Oliver excels a physical battle, offering a presence in both attacking build-up and as a threat from crosses and set-pieces. However, the goals have been few and far between over the last couple of seasons and it’s likely the 33-year-old’s future lies elsewhere.
Richie Smallwood
Richie Smallwood joined from Hull City in the same summer as Oliver. A seasoned central midfielder with vast experience, Smallwood has played at a much higher level, including the Championship with Hull and Blackburn Rovers. Known for his leadership, he is the heartbeat of their midfield, and he was quickly appointed club captain. His experience makes him a crucial figure for Bradford, guiding the squad both on and off the pitch.
Ian Holloway was seen clashing with fans after drab defeat at Bradford City in an act that highlights deeper issues at Swindon.
Callum Johnson
Callum Johnson joined Bradford from Mansfield Town on a free transfer this summer. A versatile defender, Johnson is primarily a right-back but can also cover across the back line. He hasn’t featured since signing in the summer, with various injuries stopping him from getting his Bradford career off the ground.
Lewis Richards
Lewis Richards joined Bradford from Wolverhampton Wanderers on a free transfer in the summer of 2023 after a loan spell with Harrogate. A versatile defender, Richards can play as a wing-back, left-back and centre-back. He brings athleticism and his adaptability makes him a valuable asset to their defensive line at the age of just 23.
Ciaran Kelly
Ciaran Kelly was signed by Bradford on a two-and-a-half year deal from Bohemians in January 2023. The left-footed defender is primarily a centre-back but can also slot in at left-back when needed. Known for his power and aerial ability, the 26-year-old had had his fair share of ankle issues this term that have kept him out of action.
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