On 30 June, Dale announced they reluctantly agreed to release manager Brian Barry-Murphy from his contract.

[1] Robbie Stockdale was appointed as the new manager on July 10, signing a two-year contract with the club.

[2] Rochdale announced they would play friendly matches against Luton Town,[3] Barnsley,[4] Fleetwood Town,[5] Rotherham United,[6] AFC Fylde[3] and Stalybridge Celtic[6] as part of their pre-season preparation.

Source: [citation needed] Dale's fixtures were announced on 24 June 2021.

[15] Rochdale were drawn into Northern Group D alongside Bolton Wanderers, Liverpool U21s and Port Vale.