Dara McGuinness signs for Galway United

FÁILTE DARA MCGUINNESS 👋

Tá lúcháir ar Ghaillimh Aontaithe a fhógairt go bhfuil Dara McGuinness ag síniú do fhoireann sinsireach na bhfear.

Galway United is delighted to announce the signing of 21‑year‑old striker Dara McGuinness, formerly of Stoke City, Shamrock Rovers, St Patrick’s Athletic and Finn Harps, who joins up with John Caulfield’s side.

FROM ROSCOMMON TO GALWAY 🇱🇻

A Monksland, Co Roscommon native, Dara began his journey at St Joseph’s FC and Belvedere before progressing through the academies of St Patrick’s Athletic and Shamrock Rovers. McGuinness won the league at U15 level and made his senior debut in 2019 for the Saints playing in a 4-0 win against Athlone Town. McGuinness caught the eyes of the Ireland underage setup making eight appearances for Ireland MU16 and MU18 sides. Dara also caught the attention of many clubs across Europe and he ended moving to England with Stoke City. He signed his first professional contract with Stoke City in July 2022.

Dara played a key role for the Potters’ underage sides, primarily in their U21’s. Scoring 11 goals in his time there, including a brace against Arsenal U21s. “I played against some top clubs and players like Myles-Lewis Skelly or Ethan Nwaneri at Arsenal, I actually scored a brace against them when we played” stated McGuinness at his signing announcement. In January 2025, Dara moved to Finn Harps, contributing six goals in fourteen First Division appearances, including a brace in their 4-2 win over Kerry this season, which he looked upon fondly. “I really enjoyed my time at Finn Harps and got some games under my belt and I’m delighted to be at Galway United now”

WHY GALWAY UNITED? 🏟️

Dara had interest from a few different places and chose Galway United as his ultimate destination. There was a lot influencing that between his hometown in the midlands and the style of play. McGuinness told us in his own words why he chose United. “Galway United is a huge club and it’s not too far from my home which is lovely. I’m from Athlone which is not too far away anyways and I lived there all my life really. Galway is a great place and I really like what John’s doing here, it’s a hardworking team and I hope I can fit in well and score a few goals”

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE PITCH

Dara brings a lot to the frontline for John Caulfield’s men, with his pace being a big influence on his style of play. Dara himself stated this at his signing announcement. “I like to work hard, and I like to use my pace to run in behind. Hopefully I can get a few goals while I’m at it. I’m looking forward to getting to play now, hopefully get on the pitch, get out in front of the fans and get a few goals hopefully.”

FÁILTE DARA MCGUINNESS 👋