James McClean Memoir
Former Wrexham captain James McClean announced his new memoir, The Walls, with the book set to tell the story of his life and football career from Derry to England and back home again.
The news will interest James McClean followers at Wrexham because his time at the STĹK Cae Ras formed a major part of his most recent years in English football.
McClean made a clear impact at Wrexham, where he became a first-team captain and played in two promotion-winning squads before returning to Derry City in January 2026.
James McClean book set for October release
McClean has announced The Walls, which will cover his childhood in Derry, his Republic of Ireland career and his time in English football.
The memoir is listed by Penguin Books for publication on October 22, 2026.
McClean said: âIt tells my story beginning in Derry, my childhood home, the âcheeviesâ and riots and where my obsessions with football began.â
Daniel McDonnell gives update on the process
The book has been written with Irish football journalist Daniel McDonnell, who has also provided a useful update on the project.
Writing on X, McDonnell said he had been working with McClean on the memoir and that the book was now in the final stage of the process.
âAll you want for a project like this is a subject that is prepared to be open & give proper access & James has certainly delivered on that.â
Wrexham chapter will carry real weight
McClean joined Wrexham from Wigan Athletic in August 2023. He went on to make 108 competitive appearances and score eight goals for the club.
His contribution came during a defining period for Phil Parkinson and Wrexham, as the club moved from League Two to the Championship in successive seasons.
McClean later returned to Derry City following his departure from Wrexham in January 2026.
For many Wrexham fans, it was a major exit. For McClean, it was a return home after a long career in England.
McClean story still matters to Wrexham
McCleanâs Wrexham spell was short in the wider sweep of his career but it was still important.
He arrived with Premier League and international experience. He left as a captain who had played his part in one of the most successful spells in the clubâs modern history.
That is why The Walls will be followed closely by many Wrexham supporters. The book is not only a look back at McCleanâs life, but also a chance to revisit the talent and edge he brought to Wrexham AFC during a historic period.
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