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The Football Association of Ireland has announced that Stephen Kenny’s tenure as manager of the Republic of Ireland will not be extended.
He left after Ireland’s unsatisfactory attempt to qualify for Euro 2024, resulting in the team not making it to the finals in Germany next year.
Their attempt to qualify ended on Saturday when they lost 1-0 to the Netherlands in Amsterdam. As a result, they placed fourth in Group B with only two wins out of eight games.
Kenny’s last match as manager resulted in a 1-1 tie between Ireland and New Zealand during a friendly game in Dublin on Tuesday. The FAI has chosen not to extend his contract after the Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.
They stated that it is currently an opportune moment for change, leading up to friendly matches scheduled for March and June 2024. They also announced that the search for a new head coach has officially begun.
Regarding the decision, Jonathan Hill, CEO of FAI, stated that during his time at the organization, Stephen and his team have put in immense effort to cultivate a supportive atmosphere for the growth of our senior men’s team. We are extremely appreciative of their significant contribution.
“Under Stephen’s leadership, there has been a significant transition for our senior men’s national team. He has introduced a considerable number of new and younger players, providing a strong foundation for the next coach who will lead this group.”
Gerry McAnaney, President of the FAI, expressed gratitude to Stephen and his team for their efforts, expertise, and unwavering commitment to the team, fans, and Irish football. The Board and all at the FAI extend sincere thanks and wish Stephen all the best for his future endeavors.
Kenny has been at the helm since 2020, replacing Mick McCarthy and has overseen plenty of changes within the squad, but only recorded six wins out of 29 competitive matches during his reign.
After the match against New Zealand, he acknowledged that his contract had ended and expressed that he did not anticipate remaining as the manager for Ireland.
“Managing the team would definitely be a dream come true for me, but I have a feeling that it won’t become a reality,” Kenny stated.
“That is my personal intuition and based on the evidence, it is unlikely to occur. Therefore, I also acknowledge and respect that.”
Source: independent.co.uk
