SHANNON native Ryan Nolan has signed a two-year contract with Linfield Football Club.
Former Inter Milan academy player, Ryan joins the South Belfast club following the expiry of his contract with Larne where he has been since September 2024, forming part of their team which won the Irish Premiership last season.
Twenty seven year old defender Nolan arrives at Windsor Park with a wealth of experience gained across several European leagues and will add further quality and competition to David Healy’s defensive options ahead of the new season.
Ryan spent much of his youth in Spain before being spotted by former Italian international Pierluigi Casiraghi and joining the academy of Italian giants Inter Milan. He progressed through the renowned youth system at Inter and captained the Youths side before beginning his senior career in Italy with Arezzo.
Nolan’s career has since taken him across Europe, featuring in Italy, Spain, England and Scotland. He has represented clubs including Getafe, Northampton Town, Raith Rovers and Hércules, where he helped the Spanish side secure promotion to the Primera RFEF.
He joined Larne in September 2024 and quickly established himself as a key figure in their defence. During his time at Inver Park, Nolan made almost 50 appearances for the Invermen and played an important role in their domestic and European campaigns.
At international level, Nolan has represented the Republic of Ireland at Under-16, Under-17 and Under-18 levels and captained the U19 side.
On Monday morning, he completed his first session with his new club where he is hopeful of making an impact. “I was in Larne for two years, I had a very good two years there, we won the league last season but when I got the interest from Linfield I was very interested and within a few days we came to an agreement and I’m excited to start and to hopefully do well for the club”.
He added, “I grew up in Spain, I was there for a good few years, then I was in Italy for a few years, Scotland, Spain and now in Ireland so I’ve been around and been in different countries but it is a great experience. I’ve been in this league for two years, I know what the league is about, it is very physical, a good standard and I’m looking forward to starting with the boys and hopefully having a good season”.
Manager Healy who is Northern Ireland’s all-time leading goalscorer, said of the latest addition to his squad, “Ryan is a player we’ve admired for some time. He brings excellent experience, leadership qualities and a real presence at the back. He has played in several different countries and leagues, and we believe he will be a valuable addition to our group both on and off the pitch”.
