Derry City defender Barry Cotter completes transfer to CSKA Sofia
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Right-sided wing-back brings his spell at the Brandywell to a close after scoring twice in 30 games this season
Derry City FC defender Barry Cotter has completed a permanent transfer to Bulgarian top-flight club CSKA Sofia for an undisclosed fee.
The right-sided wing-back, who joined the Candystripes at the start of the current season, established himself as a core fixture in the squad, making 30 appearances and scoring two goals during his tenure at the Brandywell.
Interim Manager Mark Connolly stated that while Cotter's departure is a loss to the immediate squad, the club ultimately decided not to stand in the way of a life-changing opportunity for the player.
"Barry was obviously an important member of our squad," Connolly said. "However, this is a fantastic opportunity for him, and the club didn’t want to stand in his way. We want to wish Barry every success at CSKA Sofia."
The move marks a significant step forward for the defender, who will transition immediately to the Bulgarian First League.
A former Republic of Ireland U21 international, Cotter brings a wealth of cross-channel and domestic experience to the Bulgarian First League.
He began his senior career with Limerick FC before earning a move to Mick McCarthy's Ipswich Town in 2018. He returned to Ireland in 2021, enjoying spells with Shamrock Rovers and St Patrick's Athletic, before moving to League One side Barnsley FC in 2023.
He spent the earlier part of the 2025–26 season on loan at Notts County before signing a permanent deal with Derry City in February 2026.