From the publisher:
The inside story of Rochdale AFC’s historic 2025/26 season, when a club defined by survival finally claimed its first national trophy.
Two years after relegation from the Football League and amid financial uncertainty and a bitter takeover battle that threatened the club’s existence, Rochdale stood on the brink. What followed was one of the most remarkable seasons in the club’s 119-year history, culminating in a triumphant afternoon at Wembley as National League play-off winners.
This gripping account charts that journey in full, featuring:
- The dramatic rebuild of Rochdale AFC following relegation, financial crisis and a divisive takeover attempt
- The arrival of the Ogden family and the implementation of a sustainable, community-driven ownership model
- Jim McNulty’s transformation from player to promotion-winning head coach, and the philosophy behind his success
- Behind-the-scenes insight into a season that defied expectation, told through exclusive interviews with key players and figures at the club
- The story of a football club rediscovering its identity, reconnecting with its supporters and redefining what success means at Spotland
Essential reading for Rochdale supporters, followers of lower-league football and anyone drawn to this powerful story of resilience, revival and community.
The author:
Author and journalist Christopher Fitzgerald was born in Manchester and raised in Rochdale. A lifelong supporter of the club, he has worked for the Press Association and several regional and national newspapers, and has covered Rochdale AFC extensively throughout his career. He has been nominated for Sports News Writer of the Year at the Scottish Press Awards. His previous books include The Rochdale Division and Into the Unknown..
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