Salford City Kick Off 2026 with Momentum and Change

January 8, 2026 – Salford City Football Club has started the new year on a positive note, both on and off the pitch. The Ammies secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory away at Barrow on New Year's Day, with goals from Dan Udoh and the in-form Kelly Nmai propelling them to a strong position in Sky Bet League Two.

Sitting fourth in the table with 43 points from 24 matches, Salford are firmly in the play-off spots and harbouring genuine ambitions of automatic promotion. Manager Karl Robinson has instilled a resilient style of play that has seen the team bounce back from setbacks, including a recent run that has kept them competitive at the top end of the division.

The victory at Barrow highlighted the attacking threat posed by Nmai, who has been a revelation this season. His brace not only secured the three points but also earned him a nomination for the PFA Player of the Month award for December. Teammate Dan Udoh continues to contribute crucially, forming a potent partnership that has troubled defences across the league.

However, not all news has been smooth. The home fixture against Shrewsbury Town scheduled for January 4 was postponed due to a frozen pitch at the Peninsula Stadium. Despite efforts to lay covers after the previous match, sub-zero temperatures rendered parts of the surface unplayable. The decision was made early to prioritise supporter safety, with a rearranged date to be announced soon.

Off the field, Salford made their first move in the January transfer window by signing defender Zach Awe on a permanent deal. The young centre-back arrives with high potential and has expressed his excitement about contributing to the club's push forward. "I want to help the club moving forward," Awe said in his first interview, highlighting his ambition to make an immediate impact.

This signing comes at a time of broader transition for the club. Following the ownership changes led by Gary Neville and David Beckham in 2025, Salford unveiled a new crest late last year, set to debut from the 2026-27 season. The design pays homage to the club's historical roots, featuring elements inspired by past badges and local landmarks. A fan vote overwhelmingly supported the return to orange as the primary home colour, reflecting a desire to reconnect with the club's pre-Class of '92 heritage.

Looking ahead, Salford face Swindon Town in the FA Cup third round this weekend, offering a chance to progress in the competition and build further momentum. With the league campaign intensifying and the transfer window open, the Ammies are poised for an exciting second half of the season.

As the club balances tradition with ambition under its high-profile ownership, supporters have reason for optimism. Salford City's journey from non-league to League Two contenders continues to captivate, and 2026 could prove a pivotal year in their ongoing evolution.

The Peninsula Stadium faithful will hope that recent results, new additions, and a refreshed identity translate into sustained success on the pitch.