Liam Duckstein
Caldwell Reunites with Latics for Second Spell
Gary Caldwell is back at Wigan Athletic—this time as head coach for the second time in his career.
The 43-year-old leaves Exeter City after two years in charge to return to the club where he spent six seasons as a player and an initial 18-month stint in the dugout, starting in April 2015.
Wigan’s statement called his return “an exciting new chapter”, praising Caldwell’s growth as a coach in recent years. Wigan Athletic believe the appointment bridges the club’s proud past with an ambitious future.
“The Board believes this appointment represents a step forward—reconnecting the club’s proud past with an ambitious future.”
Caldwell’s first tenure saw mixed results. He couldn’t prevent relegation to League One but led the Latics back to the Championship as champions in 2016. His time ended abruptly in October that year after a poor start to the season.
Since then, he’s managed Chesterfield and Partick Thistle before taking over at Exeter, where he oversaw 180 games at St James Park.
Wigan’s Struggles and New Leadership
Wigan Athletic, who suffered a 4-0 FA Cup defeat to Arsenal on Sunday, have been without a permanent manager since parting ways with Ryan Lowe on 7 February.
Caldwell inherits a side winless in eight league games—losing the last four—and sitting 22nd in League One, just a point above the relegation zone.
Exeter confirmed an agreement on compensation for Caldwell, who will bring former Wigan midfielder David Perkins as first-team coach. The former Scotland international departs Exeter City on good terms, with interim chairman Laurence Overend thanking him for his contributions.
“He has represented our club with great passion and professionalism and has helped shape our team in a challenging and competitive division. 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.”
Dan Green will take charge of Exeter’s home game against Wycombe Wanderers on Tuesday.
Wigan have not disclosed the length of Caldwell’s contract but confirmed the departures of Whelan and Barrow.
A Blow for Exeter, a Gamble for Wigan
Caldwell’s exit is a significant setback for Exeter City, a fan-owned club navigating financial challenges. Under his leadership, they’ve consistently punched above their wage structure, currently sitting 13th in League One.
If they avoid relegation, it will mark their longest stay in the third tier since the late 1970s and early 1980s.
His tenure had its ups and downs—including a rough patch of just two wins in 19 games from September to December 2023, with heavy losses like 9-0 and 7-0. Yet, there were standout moments too, like knocking out then-Premier League side Luton Town in the EFL Cup and taking Nottingham Forest to penalties in the FA Cup fourth round.
Caldwell’s decision to leave isn’t surprising. Exeter faces potential budget cuts next season to stabilize finances, making an already tough job harder. His family remains in the North West, and his deep ties to Wigan Athletic made the move inevitable—even if it means swapping a club that hasn’t sacked a manager since 2003 for one where the last boss lasted just 11 months.