Galway manager Padraic Joyce has been dealt another blow ahead of the 2026 season’s start with the news that has opted out of the panel.

Salthill-Knocknacarra made four appearances for the Tribesmen off the bench in last year’s championship, but will not be committing for this year’s league and championship campaign.

It means Sweeney has joined Johnny Heaney and Tomo Culhane in opting off the Connacht champions’ panel from last season, while attacker Matthew Thompson isn’t be available either after travelling to the US.

Galway face Mayo in tomorrow afternoon’s Connacht FBD FL final in Tuam (1pm) before commencing their Allianz League Division 1 campaign against the same opposition on Sunday week at Pearse Stadium (1.45pm).

- Matthew Thompson heads Stateside
- Johnny Heaney, Tomo Culhane and Cathal Sweeney opt out
- FBD League final
- Galway play Mayo twice in the next two weeks

🎙Barry Cullinane

📺 https://t.co/CMVEKRrE0d pic.twitter.com/4pZNUNCYXB

— The Maroon & White Pod (@maroonwhitepod) January 16, 2026

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