Carla Ward announced as new Republic of Ireland manager

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·16 January 2025

Carla Ward announced as new Republic of Ireland manager

The Republic of Ireland have unveiled Carla Ward as their new manager. The former Aston Villa boss has signed a deal taking her through to the end of the 2027 World Cup.

The ex-Sheffield United, Birmingham City and Villa manager succeeds Eileen Gleeson. The 52-year-old was dismissed following Ireland’s failure to qualify for Euro 2025.

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Having departed Aston Villa at the end of last season, Ward initially joined up with Emma Hayes’ backroom setup as the USA won Olympic gold in Paris.

A new chapter for Carla Ward and Ireland

Speaking to the FAI.ie, Ward said: “This is an unbelievable opportunity, not just with the national team, but in helping to add to the fantastic work being done to develop women and girls’ football. Over the next two and a half years, as we build towards the World Cup, we can make a real difference and I’m looking forward to getting started.”

Additionally, FAI Chief Football Officer Marc Canham said: “We are thrilled to announce a head coach of Carla’s pedigree. To secure such a top quality coach is a statement of our ambition for where we can go.”

As well as the managerial announcement, Emma Byrne, who won 145 caps for Ireland and former Manchester City manager Alan Mahon have been named as goalkeeper coach and assistant coach respectively.

Ireland will play their first match of the Carla Ward era against Türkiye in the Nations League on February 21st.