Nantwich Town FC are preparing for one of the most exciting chapters in our history with the launch of an ambitious new football pathway designed to transform player development and strengthen the future of the Club.
Following a comprehensive review of its football structure, the Club has introduced a new vision for youth football that places player development, progression opportunities and long-term sustainability at the heart of everything it does.
The new model is focused on creating the highest possible coaching standards and providing talented young footballers with a clear pathway from grassroots football through to the Academy, the First Team and beyond.
As part of this strategic transformation, the Club has streamlined its youth structure. While this has resulted in fewer teams representing Nantwich Town, it reflects a commitment to delivering an enhanced football experience, higher-quality coaching and greater opportunities for player progression.
The Club’s state-of-the-art 3G stadium pitch will continue to provide one of the region’s premier training environments, supporting players across all age groups throughout the season.
Nantwich Town also remains firmly committed to its role within the local community. Foundation phase football will continue alongside the Club’s thriving girls’ and women’s football programmes, pan-disability football and a wide range of community participation initiatives, ensuring football remains accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
A key part of the Club’s future is the continued growth of Nantwich Town Academy, formerly known as NTA. During the close season, more than 350 players attended Academy trials, underlining the growing demand for elite development opportunities in the area.
The Academy will play an increasingly significant role in identifying and developing high-potential players, providing a clear route into semi-professional football while helping young footballers fulfil their ambitions in the game.
Adding further momentum to the Club’s exciting new era, Nantwich Town are also delighted to announce a new partnership with global sportswear brand Capelli Sport, bringing a fresh new identity to match the Club’s renewed ambition on and off the pitch.
Club Chairman Jon Gold said:
“The 2026/27 season marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Nantwich Town Football Club. We have taken the opportunity to reshape our football pathway with one clear objective—to provide the very best environment for player development and long-term success.
“Like many clubs across the country, we have had to make some difficult decisions about the number of teams we are able to support. However, these changes allow us to invest more effectively in coaching, facilities and player progression, creating a stronger and more sustainable future for the Club.
“Our UEFA B Licence-qualified Football Development Officer, Ryan Jones, has worked tirelessly alongside Director of Community Daniel Dunning-Cole to develop a blueprint that will shape the Club’s future for many years to come.
“We remain absolutely committed to providing football opportunities for our community, while giving our most ambitious young players a genuine pathway to senior football. We are particularly grateful for the support and commitment of First Team Manager Luke Goddard and his leadership team as we work together to develop the next generation of semi-professional and professional footballers here in Nantwich.
“Combined with our exciting new partnership with Capelli Sport, we believe the foundations are now in place for a new era at Nantwich Town FC. We cannot wait to see our players, supporters and community enjoy the journey with us throughout the 2026/27 season.”
Photo by Jonathan White