AFC Wimbledon is preparing for a summer shake-up as the club announces the departure of four players following the conclusion of their League One campaign. Among those moving on is defender Sam Hutchinson, whose time with the Dons has been nothing short of remarkable.
Hutchinson, who joined the club in 2024, made 24 appearances and left an indelible mark on the squad. In a dramatic turn during the 2024-25 season, he suffered a heart attack on the pitch—moments after scoring the goal that secured a playoff spot for Wimbledon. His resilience and dedication have made him a fan favorite, and his exit marks the end of an emotional chapter.
Joining Hutchinson on the way out are forward Josh Kelly and young prospects Leo Young and Ethan Sutcliffe. Kelly, a seasoned player with 71 appearances for the Dons, spent last season on loan at National League side Woking, where he netted six goals in 21 outings. The departures signal a strategic shift as the club looks to build for the future.
Behind the scenes, Wimbledon is already locking in key talent. The club has confirmed that 13 players remain under contract, with options exercised to retain midfielders Jake Reeves and Kai Jennings, winger Myles Hippolyte, and forward Aron Sasu for the upcoming season. Contract offers have also been extended to Steve Seddon, Callum Maycock, and Harry Sidwell, while discussions are ongoing with Omar Bugiel, Patrick Bauer, and Joe Lewis.
On the loan front, the Dons have confirmed the end of temporary stints for Nathan Asiimwe, James Tilley, Brodi Hughes, Layton Stewart, and Zack Nelson, who will all return to their parent clubs. This leaves room for fresh faces and new opportunities as the club reshapes its roster.
Director of football Craig Cope expressed gratitude to the departing players, stating: "Firstly, I would like to extend our gratitude to the players and families departing the club this summer. They have all played a crucial role in the club's progress over the past few seasons, and we wish them well for the future. You will have noticed that we have included a 'discussions ongoing' section into this year's retained list. These players are out of contract, however we continue to engage openly with them about their future at Wimbledon."
As the Dons gear up for the next season, fans can expect a blend of continuity and fresh energy—perfect for those looking to sport the latest Wimbledon kit as the team writes its next chapter.