Overview
- A mutual termination agreed on Wednesday ends McClean’s second spell at his hometown club with immediate effect.
- McClean had not played since July and media reports said Derry tried in August to cancel his contract on the grounds of his physical condition.
- McClean used a PFAI statement to call the club’s earlier attempt to end his deal “incomprehensible” and said he will not attend the FAI Cup final.
- Derry chairman Philip O’Doherty thanked McClean for his service and noted his 103 senior Republic of Ireland caps, and both parties said they will make no further comment.
- McClean rejoined Derry in January 2026 on a multi-year deal but injuries and public dispute derailed the return, leaving questions about club treatment of players and the role of player representation going forward.