*Wigan, England – February 10, 2025 – In a move that has left fans heartbroken and the rugby community in shock, the Wigan Warriors have officially announced the departure of three of their key players due to unforeseen personal and professional circumstances. The announcement, made today by the club’s management team, marks the end of an era for the Warriors, as these star athletes have been pivotal in the team’s recent successes.*
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### **The Players Affected**
The three players, each with their own significant contributions to Wigan’s dominance in Super League, have become household names in the rugby world. The club’s statement reveals that injuries, personal matters, and contract disputes have led to this difficult decision, which has left many fans in disbelief.
**1. Ryan Sutton – Prop Forward**
Ryan Sutton, a towering figure in the forward pack, has been a cornerstone of Wigan’s physicality and dominance up front. Known for his strong tackles, tireless work ethic, and leadership on and off the field, Sutton’s departure comes as a huge blow. The 27-year-old prop forward has been with the Warriors since 2018, and during his time at the club, he helped steer Wigan to numerous victories and established himself as one of the league’s top forwards. Reports indicate that Sutton has been struggling with persistent injuries, leading to his decision to step away from the game to focus on recovery and his long-term health.
**2. Liam Marshall – Winger**
Liam Marshall, a fan favorite and one of the club’s most explosive players, has also confirmed his departure. Marshall has been a prolific try-scorer for the Warriors since making his debut in 2016. His blistering pace and ability to find space on the wing made him one of the most dangerous attacking threats in Super League. However, sources close to Marshall suggest that ongoing personal matters and a desire for a change in direction away from Wigan were key factors in his decision. The club has acknowledged that Marshall will remain a beloved figure among fans, having played a key role in some of Wigan’s most memorable performances in recent years.
**3. Zak Hardaker – Fullback/Centre**
The third player in the trio is Zak Hardaker, a veteran of the game and one of the most versatile players in Wigan’s backline. Hardaker joined the Warriors in 2022, bringing with him a wealth of experience and an impressive resume. Having played for some of the top clubs in the Super League, including Leeds Rhinos and Castleford Tigers, Hardaker quickly became a key player for Wigan. However, reports suggest that Hardaker’s departure is due to ongoing contract disputes and his personal desire to explore new opportunities abroad. His departure marks the end of a brief but impactful spell at the Warriors.
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### **Club Statement**
In a statement released by Wigan Warriors today, club chairman Ian Lenagan expressed his regret over the departures of the three stars:
*”It is with a heavy heart that we announce the departures of Ryan Sutton, Liam Marshall, and Zak Hardaker. Each of these players has been integral to the success of our team, and we are incredibly grateful for their contributions to the Wigan Warriors both on and off the field. Their commitment, professionalism, and dedication have set the standard for future generations of players. We understand their decisions and respect their individual circumstances, and we wish them all the very best in their future endeavors. The Warriors family will always be grateful for their service, and they will always have a place in our hearts.”*
The statement went on to say that the club is actively working on bringing in new talent to fill the gaps left by these key players, with an emphasis on maintaining the competitive edge that has made Wigan one of the top clubs in the league.
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### **What This Means for Wigan Warriors**
The loss of three such influential players is undoubtedly a setback for Wigan, particularly as they gear up for the 2025 Super League season. Sutton, Marshall, and Hardaker were all expected to be key figures in the team’s pursuit of the title this year. With the departure of these stars, Wigan will need to quickly regroup and fill the void left behind.
In particular, Sutton’s presence in the forward pack will be difficult to replace, as he was a linchpin in the team’s defensive efforts. Marshall’s speed and scoring ability out wide will be sorely missed, and Hardaker’s experience in both fullback and centre positions made him one of the most reliable players in the squad.
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### **Reaction from Fans**
Wigan fans have expressed their shock and sadness over the departures, with many taking to social media to share their memories of the players’ best moments in a Wigan shirt. The club’s supporters have long been known for their passionate following, and the loss of these key players has left a palpable sense of loss in the community.
One fan, who has followed the Warriors for over 20 years, said, *“This is devastating news. Ryan, Liam, and Zak have been incredible players for us. It won’t be the same without them. They’ve given so much to this club, and we can only wish them the best as they move on. The Warriors will always be in our hearts, but these players will always be legends.”*
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### **Looking Ahead**
While Wigan’s immediate future may seem uncertain with the departure of such important figures, the club remains determined to rebuild and reassert itself as a title contender in the Super League. In recent months, there have been reports of the club working behind the scenes to sign top-tier players and bolster their squad for the 2025 season.
Wigan has long been known for its strong academy system, and the club may look to promote players from within its ranks to fill the gaps left by the departures. Additionally, the club is rumored to be in talks with several high-profile players in the market, as they seek to keep the Warriors competitive on both a domestic and European level.
In the meantime, Wigan Warriors fans will hold onto the memories of their departing stars, grateful for the unforgettable moments they provided. The team will need to rally around their remaining players, staff, and supporters as they look to build a new chapter in their storied history.
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**Final Thoughts**
The departures of Ryan Sutton, Liam Marshall, and Zak Hardaker mark a somber day in the history of Wigan Warriors, but they also open the door to new opportunities. As the club transitions into a new era, the challenge will be for the management and players to rise to the occasion and ensure that the legacy of the departing players lives on in the team’s future success.
Wigan’s journey is far from over, and while this news may have rocked the rugby world, the Warriors’ spirit is as strong as ever.
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