Bray Wanderers can confirm that Rhys Knight has completed a permanent transfer to EFL Championship side Bristol City, with international clearance now granted.
Rhys, 18, joined from Pathway Partner club Cabinteely FC, developing through our academy system, initially featuring at U15 level for the Seasiders, before progressing to the U17 and then U20 teams.
He subsequently followed in the footsteps of older brothers Kevin and Conor, making his first-team debut at the age of 16 in April 2024, away to Finn Harps. Rhys became an established member of the first team squad last season, and leaves the Club having made 46 senior appearances in total.
Notable moments in his time at the Carlisle Grounds include scoring his first goal in April 2025 during our 4-0 win against Longford Town, before getting on the scoresheet again two months later at home to UCD. The young creative midfielder also provided four assists in 2025, as Wanderers reached the Promotion Play-off for the second year running.
The Clonkeen College (Blackrock) student was named the U18 Boys' Schools International Player of the Year at the 35th Annual FAI International Awards in June 2025. Rhys continued his rich vein of club form onto the international scene with instrumental performances in all four Centenary Shield encounters against Northern Ireland (scoring once), England, Scottland (where his was named man of the match) and Wales, while also playing a starring role in the 3-1 victory over Australia.
Speaking after the announcement of the transfer, First Team Coach Paul Heffernan said:
“Rhys is a special young player, who has the right mindset and humility to go with his obvious talent. We wish Rhys nothing but success as we watch with pride the next stages of his career with Bristol City.”
Dave Foley, Academy Director of Bray Wanderers, added:
“This is a hugely proud moment for everyone connected with Bray Wanderers. To see a player, who we have seen progress along his Academy journey all the way up to the First Team, earn a move of this stature, is a real validation of the work being done across our Academy.
It reflects not only Rhys’s talent, dedication, and character, but also the consistent support he has received from his family, his coaches, and all the staff who have worked with him over the years. I’d like to thank everyone involved in his journey and wish him every success as he takes this next step in his career - he leaves Bray Wanderers with our full support and immense pride.”
Rhys also had a message for fans:
“I would like to thank all the staff, players, and the fans for making me feel so welcome since I joined the club. I’ve loved every second training and playing with the Academy and First Team, and will be forever grateful for the opportunity I was given. I wish nothing but the best for Bray Wanderers going forward.”
Bray Wanderers would like to place on record our sincerest thanks to Rhys for his unwavering commitment and professionalism throughout his time at the Club, and we wish him every success in this exciting next chapter of his career.
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