During pre-season, Derek Adams was appointed as Bantams new manager.

[3] Bradford City revealed they would have pre-season friendlies against Bradford (Park Avenue),[4] Eccleshill United,[4] Doncaster Rovers,[4] Guiseley,[4] Brighouse Town,[4] Blackburn Rovers,[4] Chesterfield[4] and Accrington Stanley[5] as part of their preparations for the new season.

Source: [citation needed] The Bantams' fixtures were released on 24 June 2021.

[9] Bradford City were drawn away to Nottingham Forest in the first round.

[11][12] Group game fixture dates were announced on 22 July.