Wigan Athletic have confirmed the departure of midfielder Ronan Darcy, who has been released after failing to secure a move during the summer transfer window. The 25-year-old's exit comes as former Latics midfielder Matt Smith has signed for Stevenage on a contract of undisclosed length.
Darcy joined the club in January 2025, a signing made by then-manager Shaun Maloney following the sale of Thelo Aasgaard to Luton Town. Maloney was dismissed just two weeks after Darcy's arrival, and the player never featured under his successor, Ryan Lowe. He was made available for transfer at the end of last season and spent the entire campaign out on loan, first at Chesterfield and then at Crawley Town. Head coach Gary Caldwell had indicated a loan or release was possible, stating, "But we need to wait and see, and make sure it's right for the player as well as the clubs involved." Darcy leaves having made 14 appearances and scored one goal for Wigan.
What is Wigan Athletic's current league position?
The squad changes occur as Wigan Athletic face a tough start to the 2026/27 League One season. The team currently sits 24th in the table, having taken just three points from their opening five matches. Their record shows one win and four losses, with a recent run of form reading LWLLL. They have scored five goals but conceded 11, giving them a goal difference of minus six. This leaves them a significant nine points behind the early leaders, Sheffield Wednesday. Fans can track the team's progress in the standings throughout the season.
Where does Matt Smith fit after leaving Wigan?
Matt Smith's move to Stevenage concludes his time at the DW Stadium after he declined a new contract offer from Wigan at the end of the previous season. The midfielder now joins a Stevenage side and will be looking to establish himself quickly in their setup. His departure, along with Darcy's, represents a further reshaping of the midfield options available to Gary Caldwell. The manager will be assessing his squad depth ahead of a critical period of fixtures.
What is next for Wigan's young players?
In further movement involving the club's younger prospects, striker Adam Moseley has joined National League North side Southport on a short-term 28-day contract. Caldwell explained the rationale for the loan, saying, "It's just to get him games." This move is designed to provide the forward with valuable first-team experience that could aid his development for the future. Monitoring the progress of loaned players is part of the club's strategy, with detailed stats available on their performances.
When is Wigan Athletic's next fixture?
The immediate focus for Caldwell and his players is a daunting trip to face league leaders Sheffield Wednesday on September 12th. This away fixture presents a major challenge but also an opportunity to try and kick-start their season against the division's top side. The match is a key part of the upcoming fixtures schedule as Wigan look to climb away from the bottom of the table. The club will travel to Hillsborough hoping to cause an upset and secure a much-needed result.
