James McClean Nears Surprise Exit from Wrexham AFC in Emotional Return Home
Veteran winger James McClean is on the verge of sealing a highly unexpected transfer exit from Wrexham AFC, returning to his boyhood club Derry City in a move that brings down the curtain on an influential chapter of his career in English football. �
Football League World +1
At the age of 36, McClean — who has been a central figure in Wrexham’s rise through the English Football League system — is understood to have agreed terms with Derry City on a multi-year contract, ending his stint at the Racecourse Ground by mutual consent despite being under contract until the summer of 2027. �
The Sun +1
A Full Circle Career Move
McClean’s imminent return to Derry City represents a full-circle moment in his career. He began his professional journey in Ireland with Derry City in 2008, making a strong impression with his pace and direct attacking play before moving to England with Sunderland three years later. �
The Irish Times
Over a 15-year career in British football, McClean enjoyed productive spells with Wigan Athletic, Stoke City, West Bromwich Albion and finally Wrexham — amassing close to 600 professional appearances and earning 103 caps for the Republic of Ireland before retiring from international football in 2023. �
The Irish Times
Impact at Wrexham
McClean joined Wrexham in August 2023 and quickly became a key figure as the club underwent one of the most remarkable ascents in recent English football history. His arrival helped provide experience and leadership as the club secured back-to-back promotions from League Two to the Championship, a journey fueled by significant investment and global attention following the takeover by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. �
Wikipedia
In the 2024–25 season, McClean’s leadership was recognised with the club captaincy. He made more than 100 appearances for Wrexham across all competitions, scored eight goals, and became a popular dressing-room presence for his professionalism and drive. �
Wrexham.com
Recent Setbacks and Reduced Role
Despite his contributions, McClean’s involvement with the first team diminished in recent months. He last featured in a league match in December 2025 and was subsequently handed a three-game ban for an on-field incident against Swansea City, limiting his opportunities for playing time. �
Irish America
With younger players emerging and a busy Championship schedule demanding fresh legs, McClean found his place in the squad more peripheral than in previous seasons — a situation that may have influenced his decision to pursue the move back to Ireland. Sources close to the discussions have suggested that both parties agreed that the transfer was in the best interests of player and club. �
The Sun
The Move and Reactions
Wrexham’s CEO, Mike Williamson, stressed that the club was keen to support McClean’s desire to return home and to finish his career in the place where it began. Hollywood co-owners Reynolds and McElhenney have also been widely credited for honouring what has been described as a “special” opportunity for McClean to return to Derry. �
TalkSport
In his farewell comments, McClean expressed deep gratitude towards Wrexham for making the move possible and acknowledged the club’s “touch of class” in facilitating his departure. He also confirmed that Derry City will likely be the final destination of his playing career, with ambitions to help the side challenge for their first League of Ireland title in decades. �
Wrexham.com +1
Derry City manager Tiernan Lynch welcomed the signing as a coup for the League of Ireland, praising McClean’s experience, professionalism and the boost he will bring both on and off the pitch. �
The Irish Times
Legacy and Next Chapter
McClean leaves Wrexham with a legacy built on resilience and leadership — qualities that endeared him to teammates and supporters through a pivotal era in the club’s history. His departure marks the end of an influential two-and-a-half-year chapter in Wales before the winger begins a new — and very personal — return to his roots in Northern Ireland. �
TalkSport
As the League of Ireland season approaches, all eyes will be on how McClean adapts back in his homeland and whether he can help steer Derry City to domestic success in what could be the closing act of a storied footballing career. �
The Sun
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