Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce that Emma Duffy has returned to the club ahead of the 2026 season. The 18-year-old midfielder returns to the Showgrounds following her time with Galway United, having previously progressed through the Sligo Rovers AbbVie Academy.
Emma made the move to Galway United at academy level towards the start of the 2023 season, before earning a senior call-up and making her first-team debut in May that year against Peamount United at Greenogue Park. After being part of Galway United’s senior squads that won the All-Island Cup in 2023 and 2024, she returns to Rovers, bringing experience and technical quality to the squad. The Castlebar native has represented Ireland at multiple underage levels, including as captain.
Speaking to sligorovers.com, Duffy described her return as an important step in her career:
“I’m delighted to return to Rovers after my time away and can’t wait to get going. After speaking with Gavin, I really liked his ambitions and goals for the year, which influenced my decision to come back.”
Reflecting on her development in Galway, she added:
“Playing first-team football in Galway really helped develop me as both a player and a person, as I was constantly competing against top players and learning different things from playing alongside quality teammates.”
On taking on a new challenge back at the Showgrounds, Duffy said:
“I’m really excited to take on a new challenge. After playing with Galway for the last few years, I feel now is the right time to push myself in a new environment. We have great ambitions for the year and it has always been a club I’ve admired. Playing in the Showgrounds has always been a really tough place to play, and I’m excited to be playing there week in, week out.”
Rovers boss Gavin Hughes highlighted Duffy’s qualities as a key reason for her return:
“Emma has a lot of standout qualities that make her a great addition to the team. She’s a very technical player who is always looking to get on the ball. She’s very comfortable in possession and likes to get the ball further up the pitch.”
He continued:
“She’s a very hard-working player who can play anywhere in the centre of the park. She can also step in at full-back if needed. She has a brilliant attitude and, despite her age, has shown a lot of experience at senior level. I’ve no doubt she’ll be a big addition to the group, both on and off the pitch.”
Emma Duffy becomes the fifth player announced by the club for 2026, following Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie and Bonnie McKiernan.
Jack Dempsey