Macclesfield FC: The Phoenix Club Taking on FA Cup Holders Crystal Palace
From Liquidation to FA Cup Dreams
Macclesfield FC is a phoenix club of the former Macclesfield Town F.C. founded in 1874, which was wound-up after a High Court ruling on 16 September 2020. Almost six years after suffering liquidation and being expelled from the National League due to debts in excess of £500,000, Macclesfield FC are now competing in the first round proper of the FA Cup for just the second time. The club’s remarkable resurrection represents one of English football’s most inspiring recovery stories, with the Silkmen now competing at the sixth tier of the football pyramid.
Remarkable Rise Through the Leagues
Macclesfield recorded three promotions in the four subsequent seasons, winning the North West Counties Premier Division in 2022, the NPL Division One West in 2023, and the NPL Premier Division in 2025. The club currently competes in the National League North, the sixth tier of the English football league system and plays its home games at Moss Rose (known as the Leasing.com Stadium for sponsorship reasons). This rapid ascent demonstrates the determination and ambition of a club reborn from the ashes.
Historic FA Cup Showdown
The Silkmen will face Crystal Palace in the Third Round of the Emirates FA Cup Third Round on Saturday 10th January 2026 at the Leasing.com Stadium, live on BBC One, TNT Sports 1 and Discovery+. This is the first meeting between the FA Cup holders and a non-league side since the 2004-05 campaign when Manchester United required a replay to eliminate Exeter City in the third round. The match also serves as a tribute to Ethan McLeod, whose tragic passing profoundly affected the club and its community.
Recent Form and New Signings
The Silkmen secured a 2-1 victory last night at the Leasing.com Stadium after a testing festive period, courtesy of goals from Isaac Buckley-Ricketts and Paul Dawson, making a positive start to 2026! Macclesfield FC are delighted to announce the signings of Cameron Borthwick-Jackson and Mikey Stone! Defender Borthwick-Jackson, 28, returns to English football following a short stint in Poland with Slask Wroclaw via a loan spell with Ross County. These additions strengthen the squad ahead of their biggest match in years.
Significance for English Football
Macclesfield FC’s journey from liquidation to facing FA Cup holders represents the magic of the competition and the resilience of community football. While the Silkmen enter as massive underdogs, their story exemplifies the spirit of determination that defines grassroots football in England. The match offers the club an opportunity to showcase their progress on national television and inspire other phoenix clubs across the country. Regardless of the result, Macclesfield FC has already achieved something remarkable—returning professional football to their town and climbing four divisions in just four seasons.