Waterford FC have announced that academy goalkeeper Igor Bacela has signed his first professional contract with the club.
The highly-rated 18-year-old becomes the latest academy graduate to make the step into the senior ranks following an impressive rise through the Blues’ underage system.
Bacela joined Waterford’s MU15 side in 2022 before progressing through the MU17s and into the MU20 squad, where he has made 14 appearances so far this season.
The young goalkeeper has already gained senior experience, making his first-team debut in the Munster Senior Cup against Riverstown before playing the full 110 minutes in Waterford’s penalty shootout defeat to Rockmount in the semi-finals.
His performances have also earned recognition on the representative stage, with Bacela called up to the Republic of Ireland Schools Under-18 squad for this year’s SAFIB Centenary Shield and helping Munster win the 2025 Under-18 Boys Interprovincial Tournament.
Bacela follows MU20 captain Noah O’Brien in signing professional terms with the club, highlighting Waterford FC’s continued commitment to developing players through its academy.
Speaking after putting pen to paper, Bacela described it as a proud day for himself and his family.
“I’m delighted to sign for the club I supported as a young boy. I’d like to thank all the coaches who helped me along the way in the academy, especially Brian Murphy, who was a huge help in developing me as a player. It’s a very happy day for me and my family, and I can’t wait to get started with the first team.”
Academy Director Johnny Dunleavy praised Bacela’s development, describing him as a role model for younger academy players, while Chief Operating Officer Steve Curwood said the new deal was a reward for the goalkeeper’s hard work and dedication, adding that working alongside goalkeeping coach Brian Murphy has played a key role in his progression.
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