Cork City look to future with return of Sean Maguire and Ruairí Keating

The mid-season transfer window is an important period for any club with ambition for success.

Not only is it important for helping with any immediate issues within a squad, it can also be the basis for laying a foundation for the following season's campaign.

This year, Cork City have unexpectantly emerged as an example of how clever recruitment can pave the way for future success.

Their recent transfer window dealings, under the management of Tim Clancy, have not only strengthened the team to get over the line in their current campaign but have also set a new benchmark for ambition in the Premier Division next year.

Shelbourne have probably had the best window in the Premier Division.

Damien Duff brought in a group of players who all have previous League of Ireland experience, eliminating the risk of the unknown.

Harry Wood, Sam Bone, Ali Coote and Rayhann Tulloch have all played in the league previously and will help Shelbourne’s title ambitions after losing Gavin Molloy and Will Jarvis.

However, Cork City’s capture of Ruairí Keating and Seanie Maguire has bolstered them as the standout performers of this transfer period.

Both forwards bring a wealth of experience and goal-scoring ability to Cork City, providing Clancy with a formidable attacking duo.

Maguire’s return to the League of Ireland, after spells in England, is a testament to Cork City’s pulling power and ambition.

These acquisitions reflect Clancy’s vision of carefully blending experience with youth to create an exciting and competitive squad.

With Keating and Maguire leading the line, Cork City possess an attacking threat that rivals any team in the Premier Division, let alone their current First Division rivals.

Tim Clancy’s arrival at Turner’s Cross heralded a new era