SpotlightThe GuardianUnverified source· 26 Jul 2026
Caldwell's 'team first' mantra drives Wigan's pre-season
Gary Caldwell lays down one rule for the season: team first.

Role
Head coach
Club
Wigan Athletic
Division
League One
Returned
February
What happened. Gary Caldwell returned to Wigan in February and kept them up, now leading pre-season with a 'team first' philosophy.
- Caldwell outlined the single rule in a team meeting.
- Players listened intently to the 10-month plan.
- Pre-season training is meticulous and data-driven.
“This is the only rule I’m going to have for yous all season: ‘team first’.”
— Gary Caldwell
Caldwell faces a new season with bright hopes after survival.
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