Headline: Derry City and James McClean Reach Mutual Agreement to Terminate Contract
Derry City FC has mutually agreed to terminate the contract of James McClean with immediate effect. McClean expressed that the club “will always hold a special place in my heart” following this decision.
The 37-year-old player returned to his hometown club from Wrexham in January but has not been part of a matchday squad since July. Earlier this month, he described an attempt by the League of Ireland club to end his contract as “incomprehensible” and noted that his exclusion from the squad was “one of the most difficult periods in my life, personally and professionally.”
On Wednesday, both McClean and Derry City released a joint statement indicating satisfaction with the outcome and a desire to move forward positively. McClean remarked, “I am pleased that we have reached a resolution to settle these matters. While my return to the club did not work out as I had hoped, Derry City FC will always hold a special place in my heart.”
He extended his gratitude to the fans for their support and wished the team, management, staff, and supporters the best for the future. McClean also wished the squad good luck in the upcoming FAI Cup final against Waterford on November 8.
Derry City chairman Philip O’Doherty acknowledged McClean’s commitment to the club, stating, “His achievements extend far beyond the Brandywell; amassing 103 senior caps for the Republic of Ireland is a remarkable milestone, and we want to formally acknowledge his immense contribution to Irish football as a whole.”
McClean began his career at Institute before joining Derry City in 2008, playing there for three years before moving to Sunderland in 2011. He has spent nearly 15 years in the English Football League, representing clubs such as Wigan, West Brom, Stoke, and Wrexham, prior to rejoining Derry in January.
This Friday, Derry City will face Sligo Rovers for their final match of the League of Ireland Premier Division season at 19:45 GMT, before heading to Aviva Stadium for the cup final against Waterford next week.
