From October 2020 to June 2021, Macclesfield FC rose from the ashes under the ownership and guidance of local businessman Rob Smethurst and former footballer Robbie Savage. After recruiting an entire playing squad and club staff and dramatically renovating the ground, the Silkmen started the 2021/22 season in the North West Counties Premier Division. Their challenge now is to gain promotion to the eighth tier of English football at the first attempt.