It was the most disastrous season in the club's history, which resulted in relegation and loss of English Football League status after 115 years.

Oldham Athletic announced pre-season friendlies against Ashton United,[8] Stalybridge Celtic,[8] Wigan Athletic,[8] Burnley,[9] Crewe Alexandra[8] and Huddersfield Town[10] as part of their preparations for the new campaign.

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

[18][19] The Latics were drawn into Northern Group B alongside Leeds United U21s, Salford City and Tranmere Rovers.

[21] In the knock-out stages, Oldham were drawn at home to Wigan Athletic in the third round.