It was confirmed that club captain James McClean had left Wrexham with immediate effect to return home and sign for League of Ireland club Derry City, after playing over 100 games for the Welsh club. McClean is expected to avoid punishment because his move to Derry City means he is no longer a player governed by the English FA.

Derry City have announced the signing of James McClean, who joins from Wrexham on a multi-year deal. James McClean stated that what the club means to him is not a secret and it was always the plan for him to come home. He also said that he told the manager the place he wanted to go is home. McClean further commented that this is the last club of his career and where he is ending his career. Derry City manager Tiernan Lynch said that he has been speaking to James since he came in and was able to listen to the passion that he has for his club and for the city.

James McClean has returned to Derry City after concluding a two-and-a-half-year period with English Championship club Wrexham.

James McClean, a 36-year-old left-sided player, is set to return to Derry City after the club reached an agreement with Wrexham to sign him. Wrexham are prepared to allow McClean's departure, and the arrangements are in place for the former Ireland international, who has 104 caps and 11 goals, to return home. A deal has been agreed between the clubs, and there is an expectation it could be confirmed within the next 48 hours. McClean joined Wrexham in August 2023 and his contract was due to expire in June 2027. In the current Championship season, he has made 16 appearances, providing two assists. His Transfermarkt market value is currently €100k.