Victor Ozhianvuna could make a farewell appearance for Shamrock Rovers against Dundalk on Friday ahead of his €2 million move to Arsenal. The 18-year-old's potential final game would come as the newly crowned champions are presented with the Premier Division trophy at Oriel Park.
Ozhianvuna's season has been heavily disrupted by a back injury sustained in May, limiting him to just 19 appearances across all competitions. The issue, which manager Stephen Bradley confirmed in September was related to a growth spurt, kept the Tallaght teenager sidelined for five months. His last outing was on May 25th against Bohemians.
Title win and farewell context
Shamrock Rovers secured the league title last week following a 4-0 victory over Sligo Rovers and Bohemians' subsequent defeat. That triumph sets the stage for a celebratory final fixture away to Dundalk. Bradley is keen for Ozhianvuna to be involved one last time. "Yeah, it would be really nice," the manager said about the prospect of a farewell appearance, adding that the player's fitness is being assessed for the match, which kicks off at 19:45.
The club sit first in the Premier Division table with 68 points from 35 games, six points clear of Bohemians. Their recent form has been strong, with four wins in their last five matches, including the 4-0 title-clinching win over Sligo.
Ozhianvuna, who was born to Russian and Nigerian parents, will join Arsenal on a four-and-a-half-year contract starting in January 2027. The guaranteed fee of approximately €2 million represents a significant return on the club's investment in youth development. He will miss next month's Under-17 World Cup in Qatar with the Republic of Ireland due to the impending transfer.
His departure is part of a broader trend, with defender Michael Noonan also set to leave for Nottingham Forest in January for a compensation fee. Rovers had previously attempted to sell Noonan to German side Hoffenheim for €1.8 million. The club's chief executive, Robbie Hedderman, has framed missing European football this winter as a chance for the squad to recharge, stating the break will allow for a full pre-season and a proper rest for players who have carried knocks.
Friday's opponents Dundalk are currently seventh in the table. The last meeting between the sides in August ended in a 3-2 victory for Shamrock Rovers. The presentation of the Premier Division trophy will follow the final whistle at Oriel Park, potentially capping Ozhianvuna's stint with the club.
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