Carla Ward has been appointed as the new head coach of the Republic of Ireland until the end of the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
Former Aston Villa boss Ward left her role at the Women’s Super League club at the end of last season and now replaces Eileen Gleeson, who was not offered a new contract after Ireland failed to qualify for Euro 2025.
Ward, who was part of the United States coaching staff under Emma Hayes when they won gold at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, will take charge immediately ahead of the 2025 Nations League campaign, which begins with a home game against Turkey in Tallaght on February 21.
“I am very excited to start with the Irish women’s national team,” said Ward.
“This is an incredible opportunity, not only with the national team, but to help add to the fantastic work that is being done to develop women’s 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.”
Ward will be supported by assistant coach Alan Mahon, a former Ireland men’s footballer who also worked for Manchester City in the WSL, and goalkeeping coach Emma Byrne, a former Ireland women’s captain and record holder.
Led by Gleeson, who had replaced Vera Pau in the dugout, Ireland were promoted to the Nations League and into the second round of the Euro 2025 play-offs, where they went out over two legs to Wales.
Football Association of Ireland Chief Football Officer Mark Kanem said:
“To be able to get such a top coach is a statement of our ambitions for where our women’s national team can go.
“We are delighted to secure someone who will bring the passion, commitment and skills we are determined to find in the recruitment process.
“Carla’s coaching experience, coupled with her ability to bring out the best in those around her, made her our number one candidate and we are confident she will be a brilliant appointment.”
