Wigan Athletic enter the 2025-26 League One campaign determined to rewrite their fortunes after a season of frustration. This summer has seen both dramatic changes in the dressing room and a clear effort by the club’s hierarchy to restore momentum. With fresh faces on the pitch and a new manager in the dugout, supporters are watching every transfer with keen anticipation.
A New Era under Ryan Lowe
Wigan Athletic’s most significant change came with the appointment of Ryan Lowe as head coach in March 2025. Lowe, renowned for his attacking football and previous success with Preston North End, replaced Shaun Maloney after a disappointing League One campaign. Lowe brings a blend of discipline, tactical clarity, and positivity that Wigan sorely needed after finishing 15th last season, far below club expectations.
A Busy Summer in the Transfer Market
This summer window has seen Wigan operate impressively and proactively. Determined to strengthen key areas, the Latics have made targeted additions to build a squad with a blend of experience and potential. Their marquee signing so far is Morgan Fox, who joined from Queens Park Rangers on a two-year deal. Fox arrives with nearly 300 Championship appearances and adds leadership, stability and a cool head to the left-back position. Head coach Lowe called Fox “a tremendous addition”, praising his experience and influence both on and off the pitch.
The first signing of the summer was Scottish midfielder Fraser Murray. Released by Kilmarnock, Murray arrives eager to prove himself in England. His creative energy and eye for a final pass should provide Wigan with more midfield invention as they look to move away from the pragmatic style that frustrated many last term.
Will Wright, formerly with Salford City, came into shore up defensive options after a string of injuries hampered Wigan last season. Wright’s versatility is already winning fans over as Lowe seeks reliability at the back.
Promising arrivals include striker Paul Mullin, determined to revive his scoring form after a difficult stint at Wrexham. Lowe is known to demand high energy from his forwards, fitting Mullin’s pressing style. The squad has also been bolstered by the addition of Dara Costelloe and Callum Wright, giving the Latics quality and depth in wide attacking positions.
Transfer Rumours and Ongoing Business
Wigan’s recruitment may not be done yet. Reports suggest the club is close to landing highly rated Lincoln City midfielder Ethan Erhahon, edging out Championship suitors. Landing Erhahon would reflect Wigan’s rapid progress in winning key transfer battles and boost their standing as serious playoff contenders.
Lowe has also been urged by sections of the fanbase to move for Walsall’s Connor Barrett and Crewe’s Luke Offord before the window closes. Both are viewed as promising defensive signings who could offer valuable depth in a long, draining League One campaign.
Balancing the Books: Notable Departures
This new-look Wigan has also seen key departures. Notably, club stalwart Callum Lang’s exit frees up significant wage resources, enabling the Latics to invest in younger, higher-upside talent. Defender Toby Sibbick also moved on to Burton Albion, as part of a broader reshaping of the squad following last season’s disappointing finish.
Lowe and the technical team have balanced recruitment and departures well so far, keeping costs under control while improving the team’s overall profile. The club continues to prioritise financial sustainability, mindful of the challenges that followed previous periods of overspending.
Supporter Reaction and Club Atmosphere
There is a renewed sense of optimism among Wigan fans. Season ticket sales have rebounded, and social media is alive with discussion of the club’s fresh start. The Wigan Athletic Supporters Club has praised management’s open communication around transfer plans—a welcome change after several years of off-field anxiety.
Lessons from Past Seasons
Past experiences with financial trouble have made supporters more cautious, but there is broad agreement that this summer’s transfer approach is more balanced and forward-thinking. The focus on free transfers, Bosman deals, and moderate spending is seen as smart management in the harsh economic climate of EFL football.
Conclusion
As Wigan prepare for their first big home clash against Peterborough United, Lowe has set a clear tone: energetic pressing, attacking intent, and defensive resilience. Early results and team chemistry will be crucial in determining how far this new group can go in a competitive League One field.
If the Latics secure their remaining transfer targets and integrate newcomers smoothly, supporters have reason to believe that brighter days await at the DW Stadium. This summer marks not just a rebuild, but a statement of ambition—and the whole of Wigan will watch closely to see if their team can rise again.
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