Rochdale sign striker Manny Duku on short-term deal

Thursday, 15 January 2026 21:15

By David Murphy

Rochdale AFC have completed the signing of forward Manny Duku, who joins the club on a contract until the end of the season.

The 30-year-old Dutch striker arrives from Tamworth, where he scored six goals in 17 league starts this season, and also netted in his only National League Cup appearance.

Speaking after signing, Duku said: “It’s a great feeling to sign. The club have a beautiful style of play, as a forward it’s nice to see how the chances get created for you, so I’m looking forward to getting some goals. Seeing how Rochdale play reminds me of home, so I’ll be back home basically on the pitch.”

He added that he is eager to connect with fans and celebrate goals with them, describing it as a key reason for joining the club.

Manager Jimmy McNulty praised Duku’s attributes, saying: “We believe Manny Duku possesses some of the qualities we look for in a striker. The hold-up qualities, set-piece threat in both boxes, he’ll really help us. He’s managed to get six goals in the league with not much XG, we think he’ll get a few more for us.”

Born in Amsterdam, Duku began his career in the Dutch lower leagues before moving to England with Chesham United. His standout season came in 2017/18 with Hayes & Yeading, where he scored 33 goals in 39 appearances. That prolific form earned him a move to Cheltenham Town in the Football League.

Since then, he has gained National League experience with Barnet, FC Halifax Town and Torquay United, and played in the Scottish Championship for Raith Rovers and Inverness Caledonian Thistle. More recently, Duku had a short spell in Gibraltar with Manchester 62 before returning to English non-league football, turning out for Wealdstone, Solihull Moors and Tamworth.

Duku will wear the number 30 shirt during his time at Rochdale.

Donate to Roch Valley Radio

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something happening in our Borough?

Let us know by emailing newsdesk@rochvalleyradio.com

All contact will be treated in confidence.

More from Local Sports

Inclusive rugby group at Rochdale Mayfield continues to grow with new players always welcome

A disability rugby group at Rochdale Mayfield RLFC is going from strength to strength since its launch in 2024, with new players encouraged to join its inclusive monthly sessions.
Tributes pour in for ‘deeply respected and passionate’ community football hero

Tributes are flooding in following the sudden death of ‘deeply respected and passionate’ community hero Dale Harris. The 31-year-old, well-known in the community for supporting youngsters into football and championing local sports, passed away at Royal Oldham Hospital on Monday, January 12
Draw made for Wheelchair Challenge Cup

Rochdale Hornets' wheelchair team will host Edinburgh Giants in the Wheelchair Challenge Cup round of 16.
Tamworth 1 - 1 Rochdale (Tamworth won 7 - 6 on penalties)

Dale were knocked out of the FA Trophy on penalties by Tamworth at the fourth round stage.
Humbles goes on loan

Dale midfielder Liam Humbles has joined Altrincham on a loan deal until the end of the 2025/26 season.
Rochdale teen earns prestigious Dojo Instructor title after completing coaching programme

A dedicated Rochdale teenager has officially qualified as a karate instructor after completing an intensive coaching programme, earning the title of Sensei.
Rochdale Masters Rugby League recruiting new players ahead of pre-season

Rochdale’s Masters Rugby League team is calling on new and returning players aged 35 and over to get involved as it gears up for pre-season training this January.
Crown Oil Arena pitch rebuild enters final phase ahead of Truro clash

Work to replace the pitch at Rochdale AFC’s Crown Oil Arena is ahead of schedule, according to Managing Director Andy Duff.