Exeter City manager Gary Caldwell leaves club

He joins fellow League One side Wigan Athletic

Exeter City Football Club have confirmed 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.
 
Gary joined the Grecians in October 2022, succeeding Matt Taylor and quickly became a central figure in the club’s strong recent history on the pitch. Over the past three-and-a-half seasons, Gary has steered Exeter City to become a consistent League One club and helped develop a competitive squad under the unique supporter-owned model of the club.
 
Under Gary’s leadership, the Grecians have produced a number of memorable performances, secured important league results, impressive Emirates FA Cup runs and given opportunities to several younger players who have since gone on to make an impact with the first team.
 
In 2024 Gary created history as the first Exeter City manager to take the Club to the fourth round of the Emirates FA Cup since 1981 – where the team pushed Premier League side Nottingham Forest all the way to a penalty shootout.
 
Gary managed the Grecians 180 times in all competitions and leaves St James Park having won 67 of those matches. He leaves the club with the Grecians sitting in mid-table in EFL Sky Bet League One.
 
Laurence Overend, interim Club Board Chair, said: “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.”
 
A further announcement regarding the appointment of the Club’s next manager will follow. Dan Green will take charge of tomorrow’s match against Wycombe at St James Park, assisted by Kevin Nicholson.