Former Galway United and St Patrick’s Athletic forward Jake Keegan has officially signed with the new USL League One franchise, Corpus Christi, ahead of their debut season. The 35-year-old striker will reunite with head coach Éamon Zayed as the Texas-based expansion team prepares to compete in North America’s third division.
Keegan brings valuable experience from his previous USL League One success, having led Greenville Triumph to back-to-back league finals in 2019 and 2020, securing the championship in the latter year. His addition strengthens Corpus Christi’s roster with a proven goalscorer familiar with the league’s demands.
Keegan’s History with Zayed and Recent Career Moves
Before joining Corpus Christi, Keegan worked alongside Zayed and teammate Paddy Langlois at North Carolina Hailstorm during the 2024 season. Following that, Keegan and Langlois moved to Portland Hearts of Pine, continuing their collaboration. This signing marks the third former League of Ireland player that Zayed has brought on board, alongside James Talbot from Bohemians and Jack Keaney from Cliftonville.
Player and Coach Express Enthusiasm for Upcoming Season
Reflecting on his move, Keegan expressed strong excitement:
I can’t wait to get things started in Corpus Christi this season,
the New York native said upon joining the squad.
New clubs in this league have always been a fun experience and reuniting with Éamon Zayed is something I am really looking forward to.
We were able to have a tremendous amount of success in Colorado with the Hailstorm and we plan on replicating some of that in Texas.
Coach Zayed, who previously played for Bray Wanderers and Sporting Fingal, praised Keegan’s enduring quality:
What a career Jake has had and he’s far from finished his playing journey.
The Benjamin button of USL, he looks younger every time I see him. Our assistant coaches here have already commented on how fit he is for someone who has played for so long.
Jake is a fighter with a never say quit attitude. He brings tremendous experience and if any young player in USL wants someone to look up to, it’s Jake: a proven goalscorer at USL who adds an incredible work rate and professional attitude.
I had the pleasure of working with him in 2024 and I’m excited to work alongside him again and continue to push him to achieve more.
Building a Competitive Roster for Corpus Christi’s Debut
Corpus Christi’s newly assembled squad reflects a strategic blend of seasoned talent and fresh prospects, with Zayed recruiting multiple players with roots in the League of Ireland. Aside from Keegan’s acquisition, FAI Cup winner Jack Keaney joins from Cliftonville, and goalkeeper James Talbot arrives from Bohemians, emphasizing the club’s commitment to experience and competitive readiness.
Implications for USL League One and the Team’s Future
The incorporation of Jake Keegan and other internationally experienced players signals Corpus Christi’s ambition to make an immediate impact in USL League One. With a coaching staff confident in their squad’s fitness and fighting spirit, the expansion club aims to emulate past successes seen with North Carolina Hailstorm and Greenville Triumph. Fans can anticipate an energetic and determined team as Corpus Christi embarks on its first campaign, contributing to the growing reputation of USL League One in Texas and beyond.
FAI Cup winner Jack Keaney links up with Éamon Zayed at Texas USL expansion club Corpus Christi – https://t.co/94rjArr8tj https://t.co/IzrsJaSQZI
— extratime.com (@ExtratimeNews) January 31, 2026
