Exeter City Football Club have confirmed that Finnish winger Ilmari Niskanen and Northern Ireland striker Josh Magennis have both signed for other League One clubs, ending their spells at the St James Park side.

Who left Exeter City and where are they headed?

Niskanen, 27, completed a free transfer to fellow League One side Portsmouth FC on a two‑year deal announced on 5 July 2026. Magennis, 33, joined Cambridge United on a one‑year contract with an option for a further year, revealed on 7 July 2026. Both players had been key contributors last season, with Niskanen providing 8 assists and Magennis scoring 12 league goals before their departures.

Why does this matter for Exeter City Football Club?

The club sit 21st in League One, 49 pts, 12W‑13D‑21L from 46 games, recent form LDDDW, and are 54 points behind leaders Lincoln. Losing two experienced attackers narrows an already thin attacking pool that has produced 52 goals while conceding 61 this campaign. Manager Gary Caldwell now faces a dilemma: replace the creative spark of Niskanen and the finishing edge of Magennis without blowing the modest budget.

How will Exeter City cope with the loss?

Caldwell has hinted at promoting youth prospects from the academy, notably 19‑year‑old winger Liam Harvey, who impressed in the U23 side. The club may also explore the loan market, targeting a striker from a Championship side looking for game time. The timing is tight, as the transfer window closes on 31 August 2026, leaving little room for negotiation.

What does this signal for the club’s future?

The exits underline Exeter City’s status as a development hub; talented players often move on for higher wages or more ambitious projects. While fans lament the immediate impact, the club’s reputation for nurturing talent could attract new signings eager to showcase themselves. Caldwell remains optimistic, stating that “the squad’s character will shine through adversity.”

The departures come as Exeter City Football Club continue to fight for survival, sitting 21st in League One with 49 points and a goal difference of –9. The next few weeks will reveal whether the club can rebuild its attack and steer clear of the drop zone.