Emotional farewell for Ozhianvuna

TWO high profile youngsters from Shamrock Rovers, Michael Noonan and Victor Ozhianvuna have both thanked the club following the conclusion of this past season.

Ozhianvuna will be making the move to London after being signed by Arsenal for a fee circa €2 million while Noonan heads to Nottingham after being signed by Forest following the expiration of his contract.

A native of Kiltipper, Ozhianvuna has been a player with Rovers since academy level with the 17 year old massively impressing throughout his tenure with the side.

It is believed this was where Arsenal first became aware of his talents, at a youth tournament held in London and they decided to monitor his progress.

With 2025 being his breakout year with the senior team, Ozhianvuna looked to become a mainstay in the starting XI for this year’s campaign and featured regularly throughout the opening months of the season making 18 league appearances for Rovers in 2026.

Unfortunately an injury against Bohemians at Dalymount in May saw him forced to leave the pitch and would end up being the last time he put on the green and white jersey.

Ozhianvuan  released a statement on social media platforms following the conclusion of the season.

“After 11 amazing years, I’m saying goodbye to the club where I’ve made memories that I’ll never forget.

‘I’ve met a lot of amazing people at the club and I’ve learned so much over the years as a footballer, but more importantly as a person and for that I’m forever grateful.”

I’d like to thank my coaches, my teammates and my friends and family for all the help over the years.

‘I’d also like to thank the supporters for the constant love and support they’ve shown to me and to the club.

‘The last few months have been difficult with an injury and I’m gutted to have not been able to play, but I couldn’t have asked for a better way to sign off than winning the league and lifting the trophy in front of the fans.”

“As I move on to the next stage in my career, I’ll never forget the club that gave me a chance and I’m proud to say I’ve played for The Hoops. Forever grateful, Forever a Hoop”.