First Division player of the year Barry Coffey unsure on Cobh Ramblers future

Barry Coffey of Cobh Ramblers with his Men’s First Division Player of the Year 2025 award at the PFA Ireland Awards 2025 at The College Green Hotel in Dublin. Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Barry Coffey was awarded the First Division player of the year award but admits his future at Cobh Ramblers is uncertain.

The Tipperary native scored 26 goals as the Rams finished runners-up to champions Dundalk, then coming up short in the playoffs.

Fran Rockett has since replaced Mick McDermott as manager. While a series of announcements on re-signings have been made, Coffey’s status remains unresolved.

It’s believed the free agent has interest from several suitors, including Premier Division clubs.

Coffey (24) was nominated alongside Mikey Rowe of Wexford and Dundalk’s Daryl Horgan on the three-man shortlist for the Players FAI (PFAI) award, ultimately coming out tops in a ballot of his peers.

The man who led Cork City to the First Division title in 2024 bemoaned not repeating the feat with their rivals, crediting Dundalk for their record of just three defeats over 36 games.

As for 2026, Coffey was circumspect. “I’ve thought about it but not much,” he said when asked about his future at Saturday’s ceremony in Dublin.

“Previously I fell into the trap of making plans before falling on my backside. I’ll drive myself to the levels I know that I can get to. I’ll push myself to the highest level I can.” 

Michael Duffy of Derry City won the men’s Player of the Year, finishing ahead of Graham Burke (Shamrock Rovers) and Dawson Devoy (Bohemians), with Owen Elding of Sligo Rovers edging Michael Noonan (Shamrock Rovers) and Mason Melia (St Patrick’s Athletic) for the young player.

Stephen Bradley’s feat of guiding Shamrock Rovers to the double was recognised by being named Manager of the Year.

In the women’s section, Athlone Town’s Kelly Brady struck gold by being named Player of the Year, a fitting reward for her 27-goal haul, while Madison McGuane of Treaty United received the young equivalent.

Alban Hysa’s achievement of leading Bohemians to both the All-Island and FAI Cup finals earned him the Manager of the Year.

Liam Buckley, whose involvement in the game progressed from domestic title-winner and Ireland international to league-winning manager, was feted with the Merit award.

PFAI chairman Brendan Clarke bowed out of the position after five years. He is to be succeeded by Roberto Lopes.