McClean makes Derry City return after leaving Wrexham

Former Republic of Ireland international James McClean has returned to City of Joy on a multi-year-deal after leaving Wrexham.

The 36-year-old previously represented the Candystripes from 2008 to 2011, where he was able to capture the League of Ireland First Division title in 2010.

McClean then moved to Sunderland, where he won the FA Cup in 2013 and the League One title in 2022, as well as stints in the top flight with West Brom and Stoke City. He also has previous experience with West Brom and Stoke City.

The versatile midfielder helped Wrexham advance to the Championship after joining the club in League Two in 2023.

He made 108 appearances for the club, including 19 this season, and was appointed Wrexham’s captain in 2024.

After leaving Sligo Rovers on Thursday, McClean joins his brother Patrick McClean at the Brandywell. He has 103 Republic of Ireland caps.

On his return, he wants to get the club’s first Premier Division title since 1997.

“It’s 15 years since I was last a City of Joy player and it’s a bit bittersweet because it brings to an end 15 years in England, but to be home I’m absolutely delighted and can’t wait to get going,” he told BBC Sport NI.

“I started my career in Derry, and I knew right away that this was where I wanted to end it, and that’s where the heart is.”

I still feel like I have a lot to give despite the fact that I am as fit as I have ever been. I also have the same hunger and desire. The only place I was going when I left Wrexham was home.

14 years after moving to his hometown club for pastures new at Sunderland, McClean is now hoping to help the club win their first league title in 28 years.

McClean’s signing is a clear indication of intent from the Candystripes ahead of the new season, and even at 36, it will still pique the interest of the League of Ireland full-backs.

McClean was one of the club’s first four signings as they began to rebuild and win the First Division title in 2010.

As the club returned to the top of the table, the young winger, who was flying, scored eight goals in 33 games.

The Derry native made the big move to Sunderland and the Premier League in 2011, but he had to wait until 2012 before achieving his big breakthrough. Martin O’Neill, a second Derry man, made his debut with a surprise 1-0 victory over Manchester City.

McClean’s performances earned him a spot in the Republic of Ireland squad for the 2012 European Championships.

Before leaving for international duty in November 2023, he collected 103 caps for the Republic, including a spot at Euro 2016. He also scored 16 goals.

Wigan, West Brom, Stoke, and Wrexham, the Hollywood club run by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, have all taken the way back to Brandywell.