New Zealand international James McGarry has signed for A-League club Brisbane Roar on a three-year deal after leaving Scottish club Aberdeen.
Defender McGarry (27) spent two seasons on Aberdeen’s books, including time spent on loan to Greek Super League club Athens Kallithea.
The Roar are his fourth A-League club after stints at the Wellington Phoenix, Newcastle Jets and Central Coast Mariners.
Main photo: James McGarry … ‘I’m hungry to win at Brisbane Roar.’
Roar head coach Michael Valkanis said: “James’ experience and ability to get up and down the wings from defence makes him a fantastic signing for the football club.
Michael Valkanis … ‘He’s a fantastic signing.’
“In addition to this, James knows what it takes week in week out to win a championship in this competition and bringing that mentality into the changeroom makes him an invaluable addition to the squad.”
McGarry said he was looking forward to playing for his new club.
“Given my experience playing A-League football, I’m confident that I can hit the ground running and play the level of football that the club and city deserve.
“I’m hungry to win at Brisbane Roar in 25-26, and I’m ready to give my all to ensure that is the case. I can’t wait to get going.”
Farewelling McGarry, Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin wished him well.
“A culmination of frustrating injuries and the form of Jack MacKenzie made life a little difficult for James, but I have never had any complaints about his attitude or professionalism,” Thelin told the Aberdeen website.
“Sometimes things just don’t quite go the way everyone plans when a player makes a move, and I think that is the case here.
“He has a lot of experience in the A-League and with a fresh start, I am sure he’ll do well there. He leaves with our thanks and best wishes for his future career.”
McGarry has played only once for New Zealand — against Lithuania in 2019 — but he has publicly shared his desire to reclaim his spot in the national squad.
He represented New Zealand at U-17, U-20 and U-23 levels, and played 40 times for the Wellington Phoenix, in two spells, before joining the Newcastle Jets in 2022.
McGarry played his junior and youth football for Mosgiel, Selwyn United and Wellington United.
This story was first published on June 21, 2025.