Gary Caldwell returns as Wigan Athletic boss to rescue former club from League One relegation

Gary Caldwell has been appointed manager of Wigan Athletic, returning to the club where he spent six seasons as a player and previously managed following his retirement.

Caldwell leaves Exeter City to take over the Latics with 16 games remaining in their battle to climb out of the League One relegation zone.

The former Hibernian, Celtic and Wigan defender joined the Grecians in 2022 after managerial spells at Chesterfield and Partick Thistle, guiding the club to solid mid-table finishes and memorable cup runs.

Now, with just a few months left in the season, Caldwell leaves Exeter in 14th place to return to Wigan, the club with which he won the FA Cup back in 2013, aiming to help steer his former side out of trouble.

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Thrilled

In his first public comments since the appointment, he spoke passionately about his connection with the Latics and his ambitions for the remainder of the campaign.

“It’s a football club that is really close to my heart – I played here, coached at the academy and managed the club,” he said.

“I always felt when I left the club that someday I would be back here in some capacity – and I am absolutely thrilled to be here.

“I am looking forward to working with the players, meeting the fans again on Wednesday night, and winning games of football.”

Challenge

He acknowledged the challenge ahead while stressing his own growth since his previous stint.

“People will look back and look at the history, but it’s important that we start to look forward and take it forward as different people,” he added.

“I am a much better manager and person for the good and bad moments I’ve had in between leaving here, so I think it’s a time to focus on the here and now, which will be really difficult.”

Caldwell also underlined his desire to make a long-term impact: “I want to build something really special again and take this Football Club forward.”

Support

On the immediate task, he struck a note of belief in the squad’s potential: “We’re in a position we don’t want to be in, but one I believe we can get out of. I believe the group of players need support.

“I think they are a really good group of players who just need guidance and support. We need everyone to stick together for these 16 games, because they’re going to be difficult.”

Caldwell’s return comes after Wigan parted company with Ryan Lowe earlier this month following a run of poor results that left the Latics slumped in the relegation places.

Addressing his departure, Exeter released a statement which read: “Exeter City Football Club can confirm that Gary Caldwell has left his role as first-team manager.

“Saturday’s match against Northampton Town was Gary’s last, and he leaves to take up the position of manager at League One side Wigan Athletic – a club which he has both played for and managed during his career.

“Following negotiations over the last few days, Exeter City and Wigan Athletic have reached an agreement on a suitable compensation sum.”

Great passion

Laurence Overend, interim club board chair, added: “On behalf of everyone at Exeter City, I would like to thank Gary for his efforts, leadership and commitment over the last few seasons.

“He has represented our club with great passion and professionalism and has helped shape our team in a challenging and competitive division.

“During his time as manager, Gary has been fully committed to Exeter City, supporting the club both on the pitch and within the community, where he has been a visible and enthusiastic presence.

“The club acknowledges the strong progress made during Gary’s tenure and recognises the positive connection he has forged with supporters, staff and players alike.

“He has also embraced and been a powerful advocate in support of our ownership model. We wish him all the best for the future.”

The statement added that a “further announcement regarding the appointment of the club’s next manager will follow” and that “Dan Green will take charge of tomorrow’s match against Wycombe Wanderers at St James Park, assisted by Kevin Nicholson.”

READ MORE: Exeter City 0-0 Northampton Town: Gary Caldwell lauds Grecians for battling draw amid exit talk