The 1888–89 season was Derby County's first season in the Football League which had just been founded.

Because of this they became one of the founder members of the Football League.

They finished in 10th position with 16 points.

Key: P = Matches played; W = Matches won; D = Matches drawn; L = Matches lost; F = Goals for; A = Goals against; GA = Goal average; Pts = Points Derby County's score comes first Brown, Tony (2010).

The Football League Match by Match 1888-89 to 1892-93.