James McClean Delivers Perfect Farewell as He Bids Wrexham Goodbye
Ex-Wrexham skipper James McClean made a memorable gesture toward visiting Leicester City fans during his farewell match at STōK Cae Ras on Tuesday night.
Following 108 matches with the Red Dragons, McClean secured a permanent move to Derry City this past weekend, concluding what proved to be an iconic yet provocative stint of two-and-a-half years in North Wales. The 36-year-old arrived at Wrexham during their League Two days and departs as they experience their first Championship season in over four decades.
McClean remained a polarizing personality, facing criticism previously for declining to don a Remembrance Day poppy. The Irish international consistently engaged in exchanges with visiting supporters, leading to incidents where objects were hurled at him during Wrexham's 3–1 loss to Birmingham City last term.
Prior to his departure to his hometown team, McClean witnessed one final match at STōK Cae Ras. Phil Parkinson's squad managed only a 1–1 stalemate with Leicester following a 90th-minute equalizer, a outcome that left the visiting fans in jubilant spirits.
McClean delivered his trademark response, provoking the supporter section by raising his middle finger, creating an appropriate farewell moment at the venue where he contributed to memorable experiences for Wrexham in recent seasons.
McClean Fans the Flames on Social Media
McClean Fans the Flames on Social Media
TOP tier James McClean moment 🤣🤣#WxmAFC pic.twitter.com/0QZxDCDrfp
After the stadium cleared out in North Wales on Tuesday night, McClean wasn't finished with his antics. The left wing-back quickly turned to social platforms to deliver another jab at the traveling contingent.
McClean uploaded an image of himself making the gesture toward the crowd on his Instagram story, adding, "To all the away fans of the years, f--- you and good riddance ... it's been a laugh."
He additionally shared a touching tribute for Wrexham and the club's devoted supporters: "Thank you for the send off Wrexham fans ... been class."
McClean represents another former promotion champion departing Parkinson's roster in 2025–26. The English manager confirmed supporter favorite Elliot Lee is also preparing to exit the Red Dragons during the winter transfer period.
Paul Mullin and Steven Fletcher similarly departed the organization at the season's beginning, though the former rejoined in January following the termination of his Wigan Athletic loan spell. Despite the roster changes, Wales' oldest club occupies ninth position in the table and remains just two points from Championship playoff contention.