Story byJonathan Abraham, USA TODAYSun, January 18, 2026 at 2:43 PM UTC·1 min readWrexham captain James McClean has departed the club by mutual consent in favor of a return to Derry City. Joining the club in 2023, the former Irish international played a pivotal role in back-to-back promotions, helping the Welsh side return to the Championship for the first time since the 1981-82 season. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAfter making 108 appearances across all competitions for the Red Dragons, McClean returns to Derry City, where he played from 2009 to 2011."I had a good chat with Jimmy last week," said Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson. "The time is right for him and his family. He always wanted to settle back in his hometown and he has the opportunity to finish his career there.""He's been a great servant to the club, and we've really enjoyed working with him," Parkinson added.
