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Derry City FC and James McClean can confirm that they have reached a mutual agreement to terminate James’ contract with the Club with immediate effect. derrycityfc.net/2026/10/stat… This agreement brings an end to the recent dispute. Both the Club and James are satisfied with the outcome and are pleased to move forward constructively. James McClean commented: “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. I want to thank the fans for their support, and I wish the squad, the management, staff, and the supporters the very best for the future. In particular, I want to wish the team the best of luck in the FAI Cup Final against Waterford FC.” Philip O’Doherty, Chairman of Derry City added: “On behalf of everyone at Derry City, I want to thank James for his dedication to his hometown club. 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. We wish him the very best for the future. “Neither the Club nor James McClean will be making any further comment on this matter.” NB. Derry City FC wishes to acknowledge the extensive efforts of Joe Jeffers SC and Stuart Gilhooly SC in helping to bring this matter to a satisfactory conclusion.”

Derry City FC notes the comments regarding mental health made by James McClean and published in yesterday’s Sunday Independent. The Club wishes to make clear that these views do not reflect our core values or beliefs. The Club places the highest priority on the mental health and wellbeing of our players, staff and the wider Derry City community. derrycityfc.net/2026/10/stat… Supported by our in-house psychologist, the Club actively encourages anyone facing mental health challenges to speak openly, seek support and know they never have to face such challenges alone. The Club has accepted an invitation to meet with Men’s Action Network (MAN) to discuss these issues.