Shamrock Rovers have advanced to the third round of the UEFA Conference League qualifiers after defeating St Joseph’s 4-0 on aggregate, setting up a tie against FC Ballkani from Kosovo. The first leg will take place in Kosovo next Thursday, as Rovers look to progress further in European competition. The recent fixture also saw a European debut for 20-year-old midfielder Cian Barrett and multiple changes to the starting lineup[1].
In domestic news, Shamrock Rovers are set for a highly anticipated league clash against Derry City at home, after confirmation that the match will go ahead as scheduled this Sunday[3].
On the transfer front, Shamrock Rovers recently announced the signing of striker John McGovern from Dungannon Swifts, adding firepower to their 2025 squad. The transfer fee remains undisclosed[2]. Additional notable moves during the 2025 window include the arrivals of Connor Malley, Sean Robertson, Adam Matthews, Matthew Healy, Edward McGinty, and Daniel Grant from various clubs, reflecting significant squad reshaping. Graham Burke remains among the club’s top scorers in the League of Ireland Premier Division[4][6].
Rovers are also making headlines regarding youth development, with rumors—confirmed by manager Stephen Bradley—of a record-breaking deal that will see 16-year-old midfielder Victor Ozhianvuna likely join Arsenal. The agreement, still being finalized, would allow Ozhianvuna to remain in Ireland until he turns 18 due to post-Brexit regulations[8].
References
- [1] Kosovan side FC Ballkani next up as Shamrock Rovers dispatch St Joseph’s – Irish Examiner
- [2] Rovers sign John McGovern – Shamrock Rovers F.C.
- [3] Shamrock Rovers vs Derry City LIVE
- [4] Shamrock Rovers Transfers 2025 Winter, News & overview – Tribuna
- [6] Shamrock Rovers – transfer history, players in and players out – Fotmob
- [8] Arsenal close in on Shamrock Rover’s Victor Ozhianvuna – Arsenal Station