Cork City's defeat away to Cypriot side AEK Larnaca isn't how Sean Maguire would have wanted his time with the League of Ireland side to end.
After their opening leg defeat at Turner's Cross, Florian Taulemesse netted just after the half hour mark to dash any hopes of a comeback.
John Caulfield's men couldn't overturn the deficit and followed League of Ireland sides Dundalk and Shamrock Rovers out of Europe.
Maguire will now join English Championship side Preston North End for their pre-season preparations. Before walking off the pitch at the AEK Arena, the 23-year-old thanked the Cork fans for their support.
As the fans applauded him, Maguire took off his jersey in appreciation and gave it to a young supporter in the stands.
Sean Maguire of Cork City gives his jersey to a young supporter after the UEFA Europa League Second Qualifying Round. pic.twitter.com/276WRS6myn
— sportsfile (@sportsfile) July 20, 2017
One of the most dedicted City supporter I know, saved his confirmation money to get to Cyprus.. Enjoy Conor https://t.co/2W57f2FZsS
— Mick Ring (@MickRing83) July 20, 2017
What a night for my little man....memories for life. Thanks so much @Seani_Maguire_ pic.twitter.com/Eg3a2jLBeQ
— gillianobrien (@ObGillian) July 20, 2017
A lovely touch from Maguire who has no doubt been the stand-out player in this year's SSE Airtricity League Premier Division campaign.
Unable to add to his tally of 25 goals this season in all competitions, Maguire scored three goals in Europe this season. All three came in a hat-trick against Estonian side Levadia Tallinn at Turner's Cross at the start of July.
He now heads across the water, alongside teammate Kevin O'Connor, to join Alex Neil's side. Preston are already host to a number Irish players.
Andy Boyle and Daryl Horgan most recently made the move from Dundalk to Preston at the end of 2016 after their Premier Division triumph and record-breaking run in Europe.
