theglobalsun – League One club Barnsley have signed veteran striker David McGoldrick on a one-year contract ahead of the new season. The 37-year-old departed Notts County this summer after two successful seasons with his boyhood club. McGoldrick brings a wealth of experience, having scored 163 league goals in 576 appearances across all four tiers of English football.
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Barnsley manager Conor Hourihane, who played alongside McGoldrick for the Republic of Ireland, praised the forward’s intelligence and leadership. Hourihane described him as a player whose “technical ability and eye for goal speak for themselves.” He added that McGoldrick’s presence would inspire the younger players in the squad.
Barnsley finished 12th in League One last season, ending a two-year streak of play-off appearances since their relegation from the Championship in 2022. Hourihane took charge in March following the dismissal of Darrell Clarke. The club now looks to rebuild under his leadership with experienced additions like McGoldrick.
McGoldrick began his professional career at Notts County before moving on to play for clubs including Southampton, Nottingham Forest, Coventry City, Ipswich, and Sheffield United. He featured in the Premier League with the Blades between 2019 and 2021, offering top-level experience that Barnsley now hopes to harness.
Veteran Striker Brings Goals and Leadership to Oakwell
McGoldrick scored 22 goals for Derby County in the 2022–23 League One campaign, proving he remains a significant goal threat. He returned to Notts County after that season and continued his form, scoring 17 times in League Two during the 2024–25 campaign. However, he left the club after failing to agree on a new contract, following their play-off disappointment.
Barnsley’s sporting director Mladen Sormaz welcomed the signing and highlighted McGoldrick’s influence both on and off the field. Sormaz called him “a major asset” and noted his professionalism, winning mentality, and scoring ability. The club sees him as a figure who can elevate standards while providing vital experience to a relatively young squad.
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Despite his age, McGoldrick has consistently maintained high performance levels and remains fit for the demands of League One. His track record at the Championship and Premier League levels underscores his quality and tactical awareness. Barnsley hopes his signing will offer a mix of mentorship and firepower.
The move marks another step in Barnsley’s attempt to climb back toward the Championship. With a new manager in place and experienced players joining the squad, the club aims to re-establish itself as a promotion contender. McGoldrick’s arrival signals a strategic push for both stability and ambition at Oakwell.
