During the 1996–97 English football season, Oldham Athletic A.F.C.

competed in the Football League First Division.

The 1996–97 season was a major struggle for Oldham which resulted in Graeme Sharp resigning in February.

Sharp was succeeded by Neil Warnock, who had previously achieved promotion success with Scarborough, Notts County (twice), Huddersfield Town and Plymouth Argyle but was unable to save Oldham from relegation to the third tier for the first time in 23 years which was confirmed three months later following Bradford City's win against Charlton Athletic.

Oldham Athletic's score comes first Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.