The Grecians' prospects for the season were further hit by the departures of Christy Pym and Hiram Boateng on free transfers to Peterborough United and MK Dons respectively.

[3][4] Goalkeepers James Hamon and Felix Norman; defenders Troy Brown, Luke Croll and Jimmy Oates; and midfielder Max Smallcombe also departed following the expiration of their contracts.

[10] Nigel Atangana and Tom Parkes signed from fellow EFL League Two sides Cheltenham Town and Carlisle United on free transfers, while goalkeepers Lewis Ward and Jonny Maxted, and striker Nicky Ajose dropped down from higher divisions.

[16][17] Noah Smerdon signed from Gloucester City, and soon after was loaned out (alongside young centre-back Jordan Dyer) to Tiverton Town until January 2020.

[26] A late Ryan Bowman goal sealed an opening day victory for Exeter against Sol Campbell's Macclesfield Town at St James Park, in a game watched by 4,502.

City however failed to carry over their league form, with a young side (featuring Ben Chrisene, who aged 15 years, 7 months and 1 day, became the club's youngest ever player to make a senior appearance) being defeated 4–1, with Sweeney scoring a consolation goal.

[40] Ryan Bowman's early goal against Mansfield Town was enough to secure victory, and ensure that City finished the month unbeaten in the league.