As pre-season approaches, York City have been busy strengthening their squad with experienced professionals and rising talents. With promotion firmly in their sights, the Minstermen have added quality across the pitch. Here’s a closer look at their latest signings ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Hiram Boateng: A Midfield Maestro with Big-League Pedigree
York City have pulled off a major coup with the signing of experienced midfielder Hiram Boateng. The 29-year-old arrives following a strong three-year spell at Mansfield Town, where he became a key figure in their promotion-winning side.
Boateng’s football journey began at Crystal Palace, where he joined the academy at just eight years old and rose through the ranks. During his time with the Eagles, he gained valuable Football League experience on loan at Crawley Town, Bristol Rovers, Plymouth Argyle, and Northampton Town.
Following his departure from Selhurst Park, Boateng impressed at Exeter City, before stepping up a division to play for MK Dons. A standout season on loan at Cambridge United saw him help the club secure promotion from League Two. After returning to MK Dons for another year, he joined Mansfield Town, where his midfield presence and surprising hat-trick against Harrogate became season highlights.
Having made over 40 League One appearances last season, Boateng brings leadership, creativity, and proven quality to the York City midfield.
Ben Brookes: A Left-Flank Threat with Play-Off Pedigree
Also joining the Minstermen this summer is 24-year-old left-back Ben Brookes, fresh from a solid campaign with Maidstone United. A product of both West Ham United and Chelsea’s youth systems, Brookes has built a strong reputation in non-league football through grit, technical ability, and consistent performances.
His senior journey began at Tower Hamlets and took him through Basildon United and Great Wakering Rovers before catching attention at Hashtag United. There, he made an immediate impact, tallying four assists in his first seven matches. A move to Chelmsford City followed, where Brookes helped the Clarets to back-to-back play-off appearances, including 50 appearances last season alone.
At Maidstone, Brookes played a crucial role in their National League South play-off push, finishing the season with multiple goals and assists, including a brace in the eliminator against Worthing. Now, he brings his attacking instincts and defensive discipline to York, determined to make this play-off run end in promotion.
With the arrival of Hiram Boateng and Ben Brookes, York City are clearly building a side ready to challenge at the top end of the table.
