Erin McClean, the wife of professional footballer James McClean, has revealed their decision to leave England and return to their hometown of Londonderry, Northern Ireland. The couple, who have endured years of abuse and threats, are excited to embark on a new chapter in their lives.
Speaking to BBC Radio Foyle, Erin expressed the mixed emotions they are experiencing. “It’s a mixture of emotions, we are so excited to get home,” she said. “It’s something we always wanted to do – to settle back.” The family has built a life in England for the past 15 years, making great friends, but they are also saddened to leave.
The move comes after James McClean’s contract with Wrexham FC, where he was named captain in 2024, was terminated earlier than expected. The 36-year-old midfielder has now signed with his former club, Derry City, in the League of Ireland Premier Division.
Erin acknowledged the challenges of preparing their four children, including their daughter Willow who is autistic, for the move. “They started their school journey in the house we are currently in, eight years ago,” she said. “This is home to them. They are so excited to see their cousins and family, so it is harder for them as they are so settled.”
The decision to leave England was not an easy one, but the McCleans have always intended to return to their roots. Erin expressed her excitement at the prospect of her husband and his brother Patrick walking out onto the pitch at Derry’s home ground, the Brandywell, saying, “It’ll just be a real ‘full circle moment’, really.”
The move to Derry represents a new beginning for the family, one that they have longed for. Erin also hinted at the possibility of pursuing her passion for autism advocacy in the future, should the opportunity arise.
Throughout his career, James McClean has been the target of social media abuse for his refusal to wear a poppy, which he has said represents “all the conflicts the UK has been involved in.” The former Republic of Ireland international has also received death threats, which have taken a toll on the family.
As the McCleans prepare to close the door on the abuse they endured in England, they look forward to embracing the warmth and familiarity of their hometown, where they can focus on rebuilding their lives and reconnecting with their loved ones.