Darragh Burns Returns to League of Ireland, Joins Derry City Ahead of European Campaign

Darragh Burns has officially completed his return to the League of Ireland, joining Derry CityTeam·Derry City on July 11, 2026, for an undisclosed fee. The 23-year-old Irish winger arrives from Grimsby TownTeam·Grimsby Town, where he made 61 appearances after transferring from Milton Keynes Dons in January 2025.

Burns' move back to his home league marks a significant addition for Derry CityTeam·Derry City as they navigate a demanding period. The club currently sits in 6th position in the 2025/26 League of Ireland Premier Division table, having accumulated 29 points from 25 matches. Their record stands at 6 wins, 11 draws, and 8 losses, with a goal difference of +1. Recent form has been mixed, including a 2-4 loss against Waterford UnitedTeam·Waterford United in their last outing.

The transfer also comes at a crucial juncture for Derry CityTeam·Derry City's European ambitions. The club secured a spot in the Europa LeagueCompetition·Europa League first qualifying round for the 2026/27 season by finishing as runners-up in the 2025 League of Ireland Premier Division. As an unseeded team, they face a challenging path, with their European campaign set to commence against CSKA SofiaTeam·CSKA Sofia. Other potential opponents in the qualifying stages include formidable sides such as Ferencváros, Qarabağ, Sheriff Tiraspol, Dynamo KyivTeam·Dynamo Kyiv, and Hajduk SplitTeam·Hajduk Split. The improved UEFA ranking for the League of Ireland does provide a safety net, guaranteeing Derry CityTeam·Derry City at least a second-round tie in Conference LeagueCompetition·Conference League qualifying.

Burns brings valuable European experience, having previously featured for Shamrock RoversTeam·Shamrock Rovers during a loan spell in 2024, where he notably scored against Derry CityTeam·Derry City in a 2-2 draw. His ability as a winger could provide a vital attacking impetus and depth for Derry CityTeam·Derry City as they aim to improve their domestic standing and progress in continental competition. Grimsby TownTeam·Grimsby Town's official statement confirmed the transfer, wishing Burns "every success for the future as he returns to the League of Ireland with Derry CityTeam·Derry City."