Barry Robson pledges commitment to Cork City with contract extension

Cork City manager Barry Robson has signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2028. Pic: Tom Maher/Inpho

Barry Robson has extended his contract as Cork City manager until 2028 ahead of the club’s return to the Premier Division.

The former Scotland midfielder delivered on the mandate tabled in his first season by guiding the Rebel Army out of the First Division as runaway champions.

Planning with the intention of snapping the recent yo-yo cycle of promotion and relegation has been underway during the season with contract renewals, pre-contracts for recruits and now the manager’s future.

Having joined in January on a two-year deal, he’s penned terms on a fresh deal covering the next two seasons.

City’s director of football Liam Kearney said: “We’re delighted to extend Barry’s deal with the club. Having someone of Barry’s calibre leading City into the Premier Division shows the Club’s intent, and getting this done early was important for us.

Cork City manager Barry Robson, centre, and staff celebrate with the SSE Airtricity Men’s First Division trophy. Pic: Ben McShane/Sportsfile

“Barry demands high standards across the Club every day, and this showed in 2026. His way of working and his mentality will be very important as we return to the Premier Division.” Confirmation of new arrivals are expected in the coming weeks as the domestic season winds down.

It’s understood Waterford defender Kevin Long is returning to Leeside for the 2027 season while another ex-City favourite, Aaron Bolger, could be on his way back from Galway United. Moves to lure Adam O’Reilly from Derry City have intensified but its believed the Cork-born midfielder has several offers to mull over.

News of Robson’s contract extension comes on the day the club released their ‘early bird’ season ticket packages. An adult season ticket for the 18 games will cost €325, with €245 for juvenile/senior, and €100 for children.

Meanwhile, Shamrock Rovers are on the lookout for another women’s senior team manager after James O’Callaghan departed the club after just one season.

The former title-winning Peamount United boss was brought in 12 months to replace Stephanie Roche, improving their standing by one place in the table to fourth.