'In my eyes he stays' - Barry Robson wants Seani Maguire to remain at Cork City

Maguire has been heavily linked with a move to Shamrock Rovers in recent weeks following City’s relegation back to the First Division.

BARRY THE SCOT: Cork City unveil Barry Robson as their new manager. Pic: ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne.

New Cork City manager Barry Robson has insisted that striker Seani Maguire will remain at the club for the season ahead.

Maguire has been heavily linked with a move to Premier Division and FAI Cup winners Shamrock Rovers in recent weeks following City’s relegation back to the First Division.

Robson took charge of City for the first time on Wednesday for their 1-0 pre-season friendly victory over Waterford – Josh Fitzpatrick netting a late winner – and speaking at his official unveiling post-match, the former Raith Rovers and Aberdeen boss suggested that his star forward won’t be leaving during this transfer window.

“Well, he's obviously a terrific player and he's contracted the club, so in my eyes he stays at the football club,” said Robson.

“He's got a contract here so for me personally, what do I think of him as a player? I think he's outstanding, I think he's a brilliant boy.

“I've spoken to him a couple of times, he can play in a few positions, he can play in that number 10 role, he can play as a striker. He's a talented player but nothing but positive, good conversations with him.

“He's under contract and I love him as a player. Now that I've met him and sat with him, I love him. He's a really good boy as well.

“I don't really want to comment on any players. I'm just here. I want to go and speak to them and get to know them and see what their thoughts are.

“I'm the type of manager who wants to be there for them and help them and achieve what they want to achieve.”

Seani Maguire starts for Cork City in their first pre season friendly against Waterford. Up top alongside Ruairi Keating #CCFC84 pic.twitter.com/mDzztcQ3xe

— Andrew Horgan (@AndrewHorgan) January 14, 2026

Robson was joined in the City dugout by David Meyler and Mark McNulty for the narrow win over their Munster rivals at Lakewood but the former Celtic and Middlesbrough player refused to confirm if the duo will remain on his coaching staff as the Rebel Army look to bounce back to the top tier in 2026.

“No, I'm just over here just now working with the staff that's here,” added the 47-year-old.

“They seem like good people, they know the league, and we'll see how that develops as we go on, but at the moment I'm focussing on working with the players and seeing how they are, and we'll take it from there.”