New signing that sends emotional goodbye message to Wigan Athletic

Charlie Hughes, who came through the ranks at both Manchester City and Liverpool, joined the Latics’ academy’s Under-15 side and eventually went on to make his debut for the Latics. He went on to play 78 times, captaining the team multiple times. Charlie Hughes said an emotional goodbye to Wigan Athletic after ending a long association with his hometown club to join Hull City.

After much negotiation over the terms of the agreement, which resulted in City activating his £3.5 million release clause, Hughes signed a four-year contract with the Tigers earlier this week. He was able to sign it in time to play against Plymouth Argyle on Saturday, though he finished the game on the Home Park bench and will be hoping to make his debut this coming weekend against Millwall.

Hughes, a native son who knew what it meant to play for his hometown team, quickly won over Latics supporters. Former Tigers centurion and sporting director Gregor Rioch has backed Hughes to play for England at the senior level after he established himself as a regular with the Under-20s.

The 20-year-old wrote, “First of all, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone connected with Wigan Athletic Football Club.” It’s a really unique club, and I will always be appreciative to all the employees, players, and supporters.

“Since I was fourteen years old, the club has been like a second home to me. I sincerely appreciate all of the academy staff’s time, work, and financial support throughout the years. I wouldn’t be in this position now if it weren’t for their dedication and faith in me.

“I have a ton of happy memories and experiences to cherish. From my first goal in the final match of the 2022–2023 season to captaining the squad against Manchester United in the FA Cup, all of it began with my senior debut in December 2022.

“It was an honor to captain this wonderful team and a delight to wear the badge. Another dream come true for me at WIgan was being chosen to represent my nation. I would want to express my sincere gratitude to the manager for believing in me during the Championship and the previous season. I will always be appreciative of Shaun Maloney and his crew for helping me grow.

“I also want to express my gratitude to all of my teammates, particularly the veteran players who have all contributed so much to my career thus far and many of them have since gone on. Their guidance and assistance have been priceless. There have been friendships for life.

“Lastly, I want to express my sincere gratitude to all of you fans who have supported me so much. Every game was truly made special for me by you. You guys are incredible; you stick by the squad through good times and bad. I’m grateful. I will always have a particular place in my heart for Wigan Athletic. Among your own is me. There is only one Tic at a time.