Donegal Manager McGuinness Welcomes Murphy’s Return for 2025 Season

Donegal manager Jim McGuinness has expressed his “delight” regarding the availability of Michael Murphy, the Ulster county’s former captain and five-time All Star, who recently concluded his inter-county retirement and is set to return to play for Donegal in 2025. The Glenswilly native, aged 35, had previously ceased playing county football in November 2022 but has now chosen to make himself available once more. Speaking to Donegal TV during a Donegal Association event held at the Hilton Wembley, McGuinness stated, “We’re delighted to have him back. Great in terms of what he brings on the pitch but also off the pitch as well.” He further elaborated on Murphy’s qualities, saying, “[He’s] a person I know very well and understand very well, an incredibly high football IQ, so absolutely delighted Michael has made that decision and looking forward to working with him next year.” McGuinness added, “Hopefully it’s going to be a very important part of 2025.” During his initial season in his second tenure as Donegal’s manager, McGuinness led his team to victory in the Ulster SFC. Their campaign concluded with a semi-final exit from the All-Ireland Championship, losing to Galway. McGuinness also mentioned, “We’ll be welcoming other players [as well as Murphy] into the fold for 2025 as well, so we’re excited about that.” He continued, “We want to try and build now and keep developing, keep growing as a group and see where it takes us.” The 52-year-old manager is currently concentrating on preparations for the 2025 season. McGuinness expressed his philosophy, stating, “You want to try and bring in new ideas every year, looking at new things, being open to what can improve us.” He concluded, “For me this is the most enjoyable time of the year because you have a chance to reflect on where we are at, whereas when the season starts it’s chaotic and you’re chasing your tail most of the time.”