In a return to familiar surroundings, veteran midfielder Kevin McDonald has rejoined League One club Exeter City after departing Bradford City in August.
The Scottish player, now 36, left Exeter initially in 2023 for a season-long stint with Bradford City in League Two but is now back in Exeter to contribute both on the pitch and as a mentor to the club’s younger talent.
McDonald’s Journey Back to Exeter
McDonald originally joined Bradford City following his departure from Exeter last summer. During his time at Valley Parade, he played 23 games, providing valuable midfield presence and notching three assists. Additionally, he stepped up as a caretaker manager for an eight-game stretch following the sacking of Mark Hughes, securing four wins, one draw, and three losses in his temporary managerial role.
The decision to leave Bradford was finalised in August, and McDonald has spent the months since then without a club. However, his recent move to Exeter signifies a return to familiar territory, where he aims to make an impact both as a player and mentor. The midfielder has been training with Exeter City for several weeks prior to signing his short-term deal, with a focus on not only playing but guiding emerging talent at St. James Park.
McDonald’s First Spell at Exeter
McDonald’s initial stint with Exeter, though brief, was impactful. Joining the Grecians for half a season before moving to Bradford, he managed to score three goals in 11 appearances. His experience and leadership left a lasting impression, marking him as a valuable figure both on and off the field—a quality that manager Gary Caldwell values highly.
While McDonald’s contract remains short-term, speculation surrounds the potential for an extension should he continue to deliver both in performance and mentorship. At a stage in his career where many players consider retirement, McDonald’s return to Exeter suggests that he still has a lot to offer, both in football skills and in guiding the next generation of players.
Writer’s View
McDonald’s return to Exeter City seems like a calculated and promising move for both parties. For Exeter, his extensive experience adds depth to the midfield and strengthens the squad’s leadership, which is crucial in League One. For McDonald, this homecoming provides him with a chance to shape his legacy, both as a seasoned player and as a mentor, bridging the gap between the veterans and younger players. Given his influence, it would be no surprise if his stay at St. James Park extends well beyond this short-term agreement.
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