Love Island star leaves Macclesfield

Clare made headlines away from the pitch earlier this year when it was announced that he would appear on ITV reality dating show Love Island.

The powerful striker, who finished third in the competition alongside Samie Elishi, failed to feature again for the Silkmen following the conclusion of his time in the South African villa.

Before signing up for the show, he had netted eight goals in 20 appearances for the club in their 2022/23 campaign.

The Silkmen will embark on a new chapter in their history following their title-winning Pitching In NPL West Division season, but Clare will not be a part of it.

Taking to social media, he said: "Where do I start… this club has been right behind me throughout everything, the most I’ve ever enjoyed my football has been at this special club.

"The good times are unmatched and we’ve created memories that I will remember for the rest of my life.

"The decision for me to leave has been my decision and has been so tough, but now in my life there’s just too many opportunities that I just cannot turn down, and moving down to London plays a huge part in that.

"Football is my passion and has been in me since I could walk, I don’t see it as a job. For the time being I’m taking a step back to focus on other things, but I will never quit football and will keep myself is the best possible shape throughout all of this."

Another Macclesfield player moving onto pastures new is defender Joe Bunney.

Bunney signed for the club ahead of the 2022/23 season and made 25 appearances in all competitions before spending time out on loan at Northern Premier League sides Ashton United and Marine.

It has also been confirmed that Abdul Djalo and Max Beardsley-Rowe will depart the Silkmen.

Photo credit: Macclesfield