Carla Ward has been appointed as the new Republic of Ireland head coach through to the end of the 2027 Women’s World Cup campaign.
Former Aston Villa boss Ward left her role with the Women’s Super League club at the end of last season and now replaces Eileen Gleeson, who was not offered a new deal after Ireland failed to qualify for Euro 2025.
Ward – who was part of the United States’ coaching staff under Emma Hayes as they won gold at the 2024 Olympics in Paris – will take charge with immediate effect ahead of the 2025 Nations League campaign, which starts with a home game against Turkey at Tallaght Stadium on February 21.
“I am hugely excited to get going with the Ireland women’s national team,” 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 am looking forward to getting started.”
Ward will be supported by assistant coach Alan Mahon, a former Ireland men’s international who also worked in the WSL at Manchester City, and goalkeeping coach Emma Byrne – former Ireland women’s captain and record appearance holder.
Under Gleeson – who had replaced Vera Pauw in the dugout – Ireland were promoted to Nations League A and reached the second round of the play-offs for Euro 2025, where they went out to Wales over two legs.
Football Association of Ireland chief football officer Marc Canham said: “We are thrilled to announce a head coach of Carla’s pedigree.
“To be able to secure such a top quality coach is a statement of our ambition for where our women’s national team can go.
“We are delighted to secure someone who brings the passion, commitment and skill set that we set out to find in the recruitment process.
“Carla’s experience as a coach, aligned with her ability to bring the best out in those around her, marked her out as our number one candidate and we are confident that she will be a brilliant appointment.”
