James McClean brought the curtain down on his Wrexham spell on Tuesday night, saying his goodbyes at the SToK Cae Ras after agreeing a January move back to Derry City.
The 36 year old midfielder was present ahead of Wrexham’s Championship clash with Leicester City, receiving a warm reception from the home crowd as he acknowledged the supporters one final time before kick off.
McClean has been a central figure in Wrexham’s rapid rise through the divisions, and his farewell carried clear significance for a club still adjusting to life at Championship level under Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
McClean returns to Derry City after three seasons in north Wales, closing a chapter that included promotion success and a strong connection with the fanbase. His exit marks the end of one of the most experienced voices in Wrexham’s dressing room during a crucial phase of the club’s modern rebuild.
The move comes midway through the season, with Wrexham continuing to establish themselves in the Championship, while McClean prepares to finish his career closer to home.
The SToK Cae Ras responded warmly as McClean walked onto the pitch before kick off against Leicester. Chants rang out from the stands, reflecting the respect built during his time at the club.
True to character, McClean added a touch of edge to the moment, offering a cheeky double gesture in the direction of the travelling Leicester supporters as he soaked in the atmosphere.
McClean had already shared an emotional message on social media earlier in the day, describing his time at Wrexham as the most enjoyable period of his career. The farewell was echoed by his family, with wife Erin speaking of their excitement at returning home after 15 years away.
She explained the move brings mixed emotions, sadness at leaving behind friends and a life built in Wales, but joy at rejoining family and no longer missing major moments back in Derry.
Speaking to club media, McClean underlined the pride he feels in what was achieved during his stay. He pointed to the promotions secured and his commitment to playing with passion and care every time he pulled on the shirt.
He described Wrexham as a club with the potential to keep growing and made it clear the memories from this period will stay with him long after his departure.
Co owner Rob McElhenney also paid tribute, posting a heartfelt message thanking McClean for his impact both on and off the pitch. The words reflected the influence McClean had within the squad and around the club during a transformative era.
McClean now turns his focus to Derry City, where he will look to bring leadership and experience back to familiar surroundings. For Wrexham, the task is to move forward without one of the personalities who helped shape their climb, as they continue their Championship journey with momentum still firmly intact.
TOP tier James McClean moment 🤣🤣#WxmAFC pic.twitter.com/0QZxDCDrfp
— RobRyanRed – Wrexham AFC Podcast (@RobRyanRed) January 20, 2026
