The FAI has agreed terms with Stephen Kenny to manage the Senior Men’s National Team through to at least the conclusion of the Euro 2024 campaign.
On the instruction of the Board of the FAI, the agreement was successfully negotiated by FAI Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Hill after extensive and productive talks with Stephen Kenny.
The FAI can also confirm that new contracts have been agreed for Assistant Manager Keith Andrews and the coaching team of Dean Kiely, Stephen Rice and Damien Doyle. An assistant coach will be appointed by Stephen Kenny in due course.
“I consider it the ultimate honour to manage my country and I am delighted to extend my contract,” said Kenny.
“The players are incredibly proud to play for Ireland and in recent performances, we have witnessed a powerful connection between the team and the Irish supporters.”
“The attitude of the players has been exceptional, we have seen the team grow and develop and I, together with Keith Andrews and all of the staff, look forward to seeing the team fulfil its potential.”
“With the recent return of supporters to stadiums, I want to acknowledge the importance of the passionate Irish fans both home and away.”
“Finally, I want to express my appreciation to Jonathan and the Board of the FAI for sharing our belief in the International Squad.”
“The Board gave me clear instructions to agree a deal that sees Stephen in charge for the upcoming UEFA Nations League and Euro 2024 campaigns at a time when there is so much excitement about the future of this young and emerging Ireland squad,” added Hill.
“Stephen and I have agreed on that deal now and we look forward to working together as he seeks to guide Ireland to the next European Championship finals.”
“There is real optimism amongst the Irish football community about the future direction of our international team,” added President Gerry McEnaney.
“We share that belief and we look forward to continuing the journey with Stephen and his staff and players. On behalf of Irish football, we wish them all the very best of luck going forward.”
“Stephen and many of his players had their grounding in our League and grassroots game and we look forward to many more of these players emerging into our national teams in the years ahead,” said Chair Roy Barrett.
“Like those supporters, we believe in Stephen and in his players and this contract extension is a show of faith in the future of Irish football.”
