The Daily Star Ireland
Barnsley has secured the signing of Neil Farrugia, a winger from Shamrock Rovers, on a free transfer after his contract ended. The 25-year-old has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal with the League 1 promotion contenders.
Farrugia began his career at UCD before joining Shamrock Rovers in 2019. Over the years, he has made more than 120 appearances for the club, scoring 11 goals. The player has also represented the Republic of Ireland at Under-18 and Under-21 levels. In 2023, Farrugia was called up to the senior squad for a summer training camp, and former manager Stephen Kenny praised his abilities.
Farrugia’s performances in European competitions have caught the attention of several clubs, with his last goal coming in a 3-0 UEFA Conference League win against Borac in December. His final appearance for Shamrock Rovers was in a 73-minute stint against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in early December.
Expressing his excitement about the move, Farrugia said he was thrilled to join a club with such ambition and was eager to embrace the challenge of playing in England.
Barnsley’s sporting director, Mladen Sormaz, commented on the signing, noting that Farrugia had multiple offers but chose Barnsley for the opportunity to advance his career. Sormaz emphasized that Farrugia’s versatility, as he can play both as a left-back and further up the field, will be valuable to the squad. He also highlighted the experience Farrugia brings from playing in high-profile European matches, which will be beneficial as the season progresses.
Farrugia follows Sean Hoare in departing Shamrock Rovers, and further transfer activity is anticipated. Meanwhile, loanee Johnny Kenny has returned to Celtic, and Oxford United goalkeeper Ed McGinty is reportedly close to joining Shamrock Rovers after an impressive spell with Sligo Rovers in 2024.
