Social media absolutely exploded on Sunday with whispers that Seamus Coleman had found a new club, but it definitely wasn’t on the football pitch! Folks were buzzing he’d made a sensational return to his local Gaelic football side, Killybegs, after his 17-year epic with Everton wrapped up last season. Turns out the 37-year-old Republic of Ireland captain *has* been training with Killybegs GAC, but it’s all about keeping that fitness razor-sharp while he hunts for a new professional football club. He didn’t actually line out for his hometown club in their Donegal Senior Football Championship opener against Four Masters, where Killybegs sadly fell 0-15 to 0-10 without him.
The Killybegs Roots Run Deep
Coleman’s connection to Gaelic football isn’t some new thing. Growing up in the fishing village of Killybegs, he played for his hometown’s amateur Gaelic football team and also for St Catherine’s in football. He was seriously good at Gaelic football too, even getting selected for Donegal at minor level, which is a massive honor for underage players. But Coleman ultimately went pro in football, joining Everton from Sligo Rovers back in 2009 and stacking up an incredible 433 appearances for the Toffees. He’s always stayed connected, though, often heading back to Donegal to watch Killybegs or his county play Gaelic football when he had time off or was sidelined with injury.
Why Coleman’s Not Hanging Up His Boots Yet
There’s a real reason Coleman is pushing to keep playing. Everton even offered him a coaching contract to stay on Merseyside back in May, but he turned it down. Why? Because he’s got more to give on the field. The guy wants to add to his 81 Republic of Ireland caps. Ahead of June’s international friendlies, Coleman straight up said that the prospect of playing for Ireland was “key” to wanting to continue. He spoke with manager Heimir Hallgrimsson, who apparently told him if he could stay fit and perform, they’d want him around. Coleman said, “as soon as the carrot of Ireland was dangled in front of me, that became a massive factor in my decisions.” With the new season in England just weeks away, he’s still a free agent, making his way back to his roots to train and stay ready for whatever professional club comes calling next. While a full return to playing Gaelic football with Killybegs could happen someday, it’s not on the cards right now while his pro career is still kicking.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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