Finally he is back: Wigan Warriors former star, Zak Hardaker Return back to warriors few minutes ago…

Finally, He Is Back: Wigan Warriors Former Star Zak Hardaker Returns Just Minutes Ago

In a move that has stunned Super League fans and thrilled the Wigan faithful, Zak Hardaker — one of the most enigmatic and talented players in recent memory — has officially returned to the Wigan Warriors, just minutes ago.

The announcement was made in dramatic fashion on Sunday afternoon, with the club releasing a short but powerful video on social media showing Hardaker walking through the DW Stadium tunnel, once again donning the famous cherry and white kit. Cheers erupted from fans gathered at the club’s headquarters as the former star made his way back to the team he once helped lead to glory.

Hardaker, 32, returns to Wigan after a rollercoaster few years. His original stint with the Warriors began in 2019, following a series of off-field challenges and club changes. Despite past controversies, Hardaker quickly made an impact at Wigan, proving to be a fierce competitor with explosive speed, reliable goal-kicking, and an unmatched defensive work rate. He played a key role in the club’s push to the Super League Grand Final in 2020, where Wigan narrowly lost to St Helens in a heart-breaking finish.

Hardaker’s time with the Warriors came to a surprising end in 2022 when he departed for Leeds Rhinos and then later joined the Leigh Leopards. While he found moments of success with both clubs, many believed his best football was played in the cherry and white jersey. Now, in 2025, it seems both player and club are ready to rewrite that story.

“I never stopped loving this club,” Hardaker said in his first interview upon re-signing. “Wigan gave me a second chance when I needed it the most. Coming back here feels like coming home — and I’m ready to give everything I’ve got.”

Wigan Warriors’ head coach, Matt Peet, spoke highly of the decision to bring Hardaker back into the fold. “Zak is a competitor. He’s got passion, drive, and he knows what it means to wear this badge. We’ve stayed in touch over the years, and the time felt right. This isn’t just about what he brings on the field — it’s what he brings to the locker room. His experience will be vital.”

The return comes at a pivotal moment for the Warriors. Despite a solid start to the 2025 season, recent injuries and a few close losses have exposed a need for depth and experience, particularly in the backline. Hardaker, with his ability to play fullback, centre, or even wing, gives Wigan both versatility and leadership in the backfield.

Though his past has not been without controversy, including suspensions and off-field incidents, it appears that the veteran has matured significantly in recent years. Those close to him describe a man who has grown through adversity and who now embraces a more grounded, focused approach to both life and rugby.

Hardaker has remained active in community engagement, speaking openly about his personal journey and using his platform to help young athletes avoid the pitfalls he faced. It’s this new chapter that makes his return all the more poignant.

Fans have responded with overwhelming positivity. Social media exploded within minutes of the club’s announcement. “He’s back! Zak is Wigan through and through,” one fan tweeted. Another posted: “Hardaker in cherry and white again… this is what dreams are made of!”

At the DW Stadium, chants of “Hardaker’s back” rang out during an impromptu gathering of fans, many of whom sported jerseys from his first stint at the club. It’s clear that, despite past bumps in the road, the Wigan faithful have embraced the return of one of their own.

No official word has been given on when Hardaker will make his on-field return, but sources close to the team suggest he could feature in the squad as early as next weekend, fitness permitting. He has reportedly been training privately in recent weeks in anticipation of a potential move and is believed to be in top condition.

As the Warriors prepare for the next stretch of their campaign, the return of Zak Hardaker adds a major boost to their ambitions. With experience, talent, and redemption on his side, Hardaker’s second chapter in Wigan promises to be just as compelling as the first.

One thing is certain: Zak Hardaker is back, and Wigan’s hopes just got a whole lot stronger.