With the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier against Hungary now just over six weeks away, anticipation across the country continues to build. Ticket sales have been exceptionally strong due to high demand, prompting the release of Premium Level seats to satisfy the appetite for the campaign opener against the Hungarians on Saturday, September 6, with kick-off at 7.45pm.

Adding to this sense of occasion is a fascinating summer of transfer activity for our Men's National Team stars. Head Coach Heimir Hallgrímsson has consistently emphasised the unforgiving nature of this short, three-month qualifying campaign. He has stressed that for a player to be considered, they must be playing regular, competitive football at club level.

With this directive in mind, several key players have made bold moves across the continent, seeking the game time and form required to make an impact when the campaign kicks off against Hungary on Saturday, September 6th.

Name: Evan Ferguson
Age: 20
Position: Striker
Transfer: Brighton and Hove Albion to AS Roma (one-year loan, option to buy)

Arguably the most eye-catching move of the summer, Evan Ferguson's one-year loan to Serie A giants AS Roma provides a golden opportunity to secure more consistent match minutes. Following a challenging loan spell at West Ham United, the move to the Italian capital will see him work under the guidance of renowned attacking coach Gian Piero Gasperini.

Gasperini's preference for a two-striker system should boost Evan's chances of featuring regularly. The prospect of an Irish international sampling top-flight Italian football is a move that has truly captured the imagination of the Irish support, who are excited to see the first Irish player line out for the famous Giallorossi.

Name: Callum O'Dowda
Age: 30
Position: Left Wing
Transfer: Cardiff City to Ferencváros (Permanent)

Another player heading to the continent is Callum O'Dowda, whose move to Hungarian giants Ferencváros is already paying dividends. The winger made a dream start to his European career, scoring a decisive header on his Champions League debut this week in a 2-1 victory over FC Noah.

Following Cardiff City's relegation, the move reunites him with Irish legend Robbie Keane and offers the allure of European competition. After missing out on international selection in 2025 due to injury, O'Dowda will be hoping his continental exploits force his way back into Heimir Hallgrímsson’s plans.

Name: Andrew Omobamidele
Age: 23
Position: Centre-back
Transfer: Nottingham Forest to FC Strasbourg (Permanent)

Andrew Omobamidele has made his loan switch to Ligue 1 side FC Strasbourg a permanent one, signing a deal until 2029. The move comes after a successful, albeit injury-interrupted, six-month loan spell where he impressed under manager Liam Rosenior.

Now, the 23-year-old Leixlip native will be aiming to put any fitness concerns behind him and secure a consistent run of games in one of Europe's top five leagues. With 10 senior caps already to his name, guaranteed minutes in France will be crucial as he looks to add to his tally during the upcoming World Cup campaign.