The Saddlers are shaking things up this off-season as Walsall has announced the departure of 12 players following the conclusion of their League Two campaign. Among the notable exits is veteran center-back Aiden Flint, who joined on a one-year deal from Mansfield Town last summer. The 36-year-old was a consistent presence, featuring in all but two matches this season, but it wasn't enough to push the team into playoff contention—they finished 13th, a frustrating 13 points adrift of the top seven.
Also heading out is striker Jamille Matt, another seasoned campaigner at 36, who leaves after a productive stint since joining from Forest Green Rovers in January 2023. Over 140 appearances, he netted 23 goals for the club, earning his place in Saddlers history. Midfielder Brandon Comley, a four-year servant, departs after 151 games, while Charlie Lakin—a former Birmingham City prospect who arrived from Burton Albion two years ago—bids farewell with five goals in 97 outings.
The list of departures doesn't stop there, with Jamie Jellis, Priestley Farquharson, Dylan Thomas, Charlie Wragg, Alfie Chang, Evan Weir, Jake Hollman, and Josh Gordon also moving on. It's a significant clear-out as the club looks to rebuild for the next season.
But there's good news for fans of veteran forward Albert Adomah. The 38-year-old, who turns 39 in December, has become a fan favorite since joining from Queens Park Rangers two seasons ago. He played 51 times this term, starting all but one of interim boss Darren Byfield's 10 games in charge, and the club is in discussions over a new deal. Similarly, defender Rico Browne, 22, who impressed with 28 appearances after moving from Birmingham City's academy, is also in talks to extend his stay.
Walsall has already secured the futures of young goalkeeper Jenson Kilroy and right-back Elicha Ahui, who has battled back from a year-long knee injury layoff. As for head coach Darren Byfield, who took over after Mat Sadler's sacking in March, his future remains uncertain—no decision has been made yet. With wholesale changes in the squad, it's a pivotal time for the Saddlers as they gear up for the next campaign.
