With their win over Millwall on 24 April 2021, Watford confirmed their promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

[3] Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.

Source: [citation needed] The 2020–21 season fixtures were released on 21 August.

[73] The third round draw was made on 30th November, with Premier League and EFL Championship clubs all entering the competition.

[74] The draw for both the second and third round were confirmed on September 6, live on Sky Sports by Phil Babb.