During the 2018/19 season, AFC Wimbledon endured a dramatic and hard-fought campaign in EFL League One, ultimately securing survival by the narrowest of margins. After losing top scorer Lyle Taylor in the summer, the Dons struggled immensely in the final third, which led to a poor run of form and the departure of long-serving manager Neal Ardley in November. Under the guidance of his successor, Wally Downes, and galvanized by the January loan signing of goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, the team orchestrated a remarkable turnaround to finish 20th in the table on 50 points, avoiding relegation on goal difference on the final day of the season. The league struggle was contrasted by an exciting cup run, where they famously upset Premier League side West Ham United 4–2 on their way to the FA Cup fifth round.