When Barnsley announced the signing of David McGoldrick on a one-year deal earlier this week, the reaction was predictably mixed. At 37, the veteran striker arrives at Oakwell with question marks hanging over his ability to make an immediate impact in a side pushing for promotion out of League One. In this article, we will delve into why this is a great signing for Barnsley and what he could potentially offer in the 2025/26 season.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
The 2024/25 season saw the Nottingham-born forward find the net 17 times in League Two, making him the clubs second highest scorer and earning him a place in the division’s Team of the Season. Alongside his goal tally, he contributed four assists, demonstrating that he still has the creative intelligence that has defined his career.
Playing 36 matches across all competitions, McGoldrick’s numbers were remarkably consistent for a player approaching his 38th birthday. His 30 goals and 10 assists across two seasons at Meadow Lane paint the picture of a striker who has aged like a fine wine. He continues to maintain his goalscoring instincts while adding layers of experience to his game.
Skeptics might question his ability to produce these numbers taking a step up in leagues, but with 47 goals in 94 League One appearances, those worries can be put to bed a little. Though older than his last stint in the third tier, he’s proved time and time again that he can guarantee goals at this level.
A South Yorkshire Connection
McGoldrick’s reputation in South Yorkshire runs deep. His five-year stint at Sheffield United between 2018 and 2023 saw him become a favourite at Bramall Lane. He helped the Blades achieve promotion to the Premier League whilst establishing himself as one of the most intelligent strikers in the Championship. His ability to drop deep, link play and create space for teammates made him invaluable to Chris Wilder’s system.
That intelligence hasn’t diminished with age. At Notts County, McGoldrick adapted seamlessly to Stuart Maynard’s tactical approach, using his experience to guide a young squad to the League Two Play-Offs. His leadership qualities and tactical awareness make him more than just a goal scorer. He’s a complete forward who can elevate those around him.
He also has links to current Head Coach Conor Hourihane, the two having played together for Derby in the 2022/23 season. Though close friends, the two will put this relationship aside as they look to lead Barnsley to promotion. These ties add another dimension to this signing, their understanding of each others games could prove crucial as Barnsley look to rebuild under new leadership.
Fitting into Barnsley’s System
Barnsley have been searching for consistency in their attacking play under new Head Coach Hourihane. The club’s recent struggles have highlighted the need for a proven goalscorer who can deliver in crucial moments.
McGoldrick’s arrival addresses several key areas. His ability to hold up play and bring others into the game could prove vital for a Barnsley side that has often looked disjointed in the final third. He is a player that is happy to shine the spotlight on teammates, something players like Davis Keillor-Dunn will benefit from hugely. McGoldrick won’t take away opportunities from Barnsley’s current bright sparks. He’d rather spread them out and make the team much more well rounded.
His experience in League One, where he scored consistently during his spells, suggests he can adapt to the division’s physical demands.
The Leadership Factor
Perhaps McGoldrick’s most valuable asset isn’t his goalscoring record – it’s his leadership. In a Barnsley dressing room that has endured significant turnover and coaching changes, the presence of a seasoned professional who has performed at the highest level cannot be underestimated.
His professionalism at Notts County was exemplary, with teammates regularly praising his work ethic and dedication. For a club like Barnsley, which has been trying to rebuild its identity, McGoldrick represents the kind of character that can set standards and mentor the younger crop of players within Oakwell’s ranks.
The Skeptic’s Concerns
Critics of this signing will point to McGoldrick’s age and question whether he can handle the physical demands of League One. The step up from the fourth tier is significant, and at 37, his legs may not carry him through a full season as effectively as they once did.
There is also the matter of expectation. Barnsley fans, frustrated by recent times of underachievement and mismanagement, may view this as a desperate move rather than a shrewd piece of business. The pressure to deliver immediately is an unnecessary weight for a player that thrives on composure and belief in his own game.
Our Verdict
The signing of David McGoldrick represents more than just adding a seasoned striker for squad depth. It’s a small statement of intent from a club that has clearly learned the value of experience and leadership after a lack of these qualities has cost them in recent times. His form at Notts County proves that he remains a threat in front of goal, while his tactical intelligence and leadership addresses deeper issues within the squad.
The success of this move will ultimately depend on how McGoldrick can adapt to the new physical challenges of League One, and whether the Barnsley board can provide signings around him that will give him the service he needs to be effective. Given his stellar track record of exceeding expectation and defying his age, writing him off would be premature.
In a division where margins at the top are tight and experience often triumphs, David McGoldrick could be exactly what Barnsley need to reignite their promotion ambitions. The veteran striker may be entering his twilight of his career, but recent performances suggest there’s still plenty of fire left in the belly. Technically, he has the ability to perform at Championship level, the question is whether age has finally caught up to the former Irish international.
For Barnsley FC, this is a step in the right direction. By no means does it guarantee them a spot in the top two come the end of the season, but in McGoldrick they have a striker who knows how to find the back of the net and a leader who knows how to win. He won’t transform their fortunes on his own, but with help around him there is no reason he can’t add another promotion to his belt as Hourihane’s Reds look to right the wrongs of the past few seasons. Let us know what you think of the signing below! Are you a believer in McGoldrick or skeptical the signing will work out?
