Carl McHugh returns to League of Ireland Premier Division with Sligo Rovers move

Carl McHugh has joined League of Ireland Premier Division side Sligo Rovers the club has confirmed. 

The 32-year-old from Leitirmacaward becomes John Russell’s second new recruit for next season, having agreed a two-year contract that officially begins on January 1st after signing a pre-contract earlier this week.

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McHugh launched his professional journey with Reading before moving to Bradford City in 2012. Prior to that switch, he spent a brief loan spell at Dundalk, featuring in a 1–1 draw against Rovers at Oriel Park in August 2011. 

During his time at Bradford, he earned promotion from League Two in 2013 and played a key role in the club’s memorable run to the League Cup final that same year, scoring against fellow Donegal man and Irish legend Shay Given during the semi-final victory over Aston Villa.

Following his spell with the Bantams, McHugh lined out for Plymouth Argyle and later became a familiar presence at Motherwell over a three-year period. 

He then moved to the Indian Super League, where he won the ISL title twice and lifted the Indian Super Cup before leaving FC Goa in the summer after finishing second in the league. In addition to his club career, he captained various Republic of Ireland underage sides from U15 to U21.

Comfortable in both defensive and midfield roles, McHugh told sligorovers.com that returning closer to home and joining the Bit O’Red was an opportunity he didn’t want to miss.

“John reached out to me a while back about making a move back to Ireland and we’ve stayed in touch since”, he says.“I kept a close eye on Rovers and the league in general and it’s clear it’s a very well run club.

"Last year, they really played some very nice football with some really talented young players. After speaking to John, working with him was a big part of signing too.

“He’s done a great job the last few years and I know how highly regarded he is within Irish football. He’s so passionate about this club and how we can all improve things. I think I’ll learn a lot from him.

“I watched a lot of Rovers, especially the second half of last season. The team went on a great run and it’s clear to see how much talent is within it. Knowing that there’s a strong core already here, it gives me a lot of optimism. Hopefully I can add to that.

 “I just felt like it was a really exciting time to join here and it comes at a great time in my career. Moving back closer to home and my friends and family is part of the move and I’m really excited.”

Even as one of the more senior members of the squad, McHugh says he is eager to pass on his experience within a league that has become noticeably younger since he last played in Ireland.

“I’ve had lots of different types of experiences in my life and on the pitch”, he continues.

 “I hope I can bring that on to my time in Sligo. As I said, we have a very talented, young squad and I’ll be looking to help them as much as I can both on and off the pitch.

"I’m a player who is committed and competitive. I think I have a good understanding of the game and I look to offer balance to a team.”

Next season will mark his first appearance in the domestic league in fifteen years, and McHugh says he’s energised by the chance to contribute to Sligo Rovers in their 98th year.

“I’ve always followed the league. A lot seems to have changed since the time I was at Dundalk and certainly for the better.

“It has grown so much in terms of professionalism and stability within the league. From an outside looking in, the standard has improved so much and it’s very competitive. 

“It’s become a great platform for younger lads to play first team football and excel. It’s critical for Irish football that the league continues to grow and I’m excited to be part of it now.

“I can’t wait to get back to training and getting sharp. When you sign for a club, you want to help it kick on. 

“If you can find consistency, there are huge opportunities for you here. I want to play in Europe, which is something I’ve never done. I want to achieve that at the Showgrounds and of course win a trophy or two. That would be amazing.”

Manager John Russell believes McHugh’s familiarity with the squad from watching them throughout 2025 will help him integrate quickly during pre-season.

“I know from our conversations, Carl is excited about the challenge ahead. He’s watched a lot of our games so I feel his transition into our team will be seamless”, Russell says.

“Carl is someone who has played at a really high level throughout his career so I’m delighted to bring him to the club. 

“I felt it was important to bring in an experienced midfielder who could dictate the play while also giving us that balance and defensive quality in our team.”