Seani Maguire agrees Cork City extension, ends speculation about future

Seani Maguire has agreed a one-year extension to his contract with Cork City. 

The striker had two years remaining on the deal signed when he rejoined the club in July 2024 after eight seasons in the UK.

Maguire had been linked with a move to Shamrock Rovers follow City's relegation from the Premier Division. 

Rovers boss Stephen Bradley revealed last week that the club had a bid for the player rejected.

“Since the manager (Barry Robson) has come, he has played a big part in outlining how he wants to do things and where he wants this club to get to. 

"He wants us to get back to where this club wants to be and needs to be," said Maguire.

"Our target for the coming season is to win the First Division and get back into the Premier Division at the first time of asking. 

"We have a lot of experienced lads in the squad, as well as some really exciting young players.

"I am very excited for what is to come and am delighted to have signed an extension to my contract. 

"We have just under two weeks to go to the first game of the season, and I can’t wait to be put playing at The Cross again in front of the City fans.” 

Robson said that amid speculation about Maguire's future, the club was "really thrilled" for him to sign the extension.

"We were clear all along that we did not want him to go anywhere, because we know how good a player and how good a person he is," said Robson.

"In the relatively short time I have been at the club, I have seen what Seani brings to the table, so getting him tied down is a really positive step for the club and a statement of our intent.

"There is huge credit due to the owner and the board for making this happen, as getting Seani tied down was at the top of my list when I came to the club.

"He is one of the best players in the league, but as well as that, he is a really good voice in the dressing, bringing a huge amount of experience to the table.

"To have his quality on the pitch is huge for us, but also having that experience in our dressing room is something will be invaluable for our younger players."

Meanwhile, Kate O’Donovan has returned to the women's team ahead of the 2026 season.

The midfielder was part of City’s FAI Cup winning team in 2017, and now is back at the club following a two year spell at Treaty United. 

Speaking in Bishopstown, Kate said: “I am absolutely delighted to be back at City.

”The staff and girls have made me feel right at home. Barry has set us clear targets for the season and I look forward to using my eleven years of experience to help the team reach these targets.” 

The 27-year-old was the first to come through the club’s academy and step up to first team football, and City boss Barry Ryan is delighted to have more experience on board.

“I'm delighted to have Kate back at City, we have a really young group and Kate's experience, her professionalism and her character will be invaluable in helping us take this group forward."