The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has confirmed ongoing contract talks with Republic of Ireland women’s manager Carla Ward ahead of the team’s World Cup play-off against Poland in December. FAI chief executive David Courell said there are “live conversations” regarding Ward’s future as the side prepares for the crucial fixtures.
Ward took over in January 2025, replacing Eileen Gleeson, and has guided the team to promotion to League A in the Nations League. Under her leadership, Ireland have reached their highest-ever position in the UEFA rankings, climbing to 21st in the world. Courell told the FAI annual general meeting that the association is “really delighted” with Ward’s performance and the team’s current state.
“We’re really delighted with how Carla has performed. That’s evident by reaching our highest-ever ranking in the world of 21,” Courell said. “The team is in a really good space. They’re stable, very focused on what they need to achieve and headed in the right direction. That’s something that the association recognises and something the association wants to continue.”
Ward has been linked with vacant managerial positions in the Women’s Super League in recent months but has dismissed those rumours, stating that “nothing is tempting when I’m in this job.” Her current contract is due to expire at the end of the ongoing World Cup qualifying campaign.
When pressed about the details or potential length of a new deal, Courell declined to reveal specifics. “In terms of where conversations are or where they may go, I’m not in a position to divulge that,” he said.
The Republic of Ireland women’s team face Poland in a decisive two-legged play-off for a place at the World Cup in Brazil. The first leg will take place in Gdansk on 1 December, followed by the return fixture four days later at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Ireland have lost just one of their past six matches heading into the play-offs.
Courell drew a parallel with the men’s side, whose manager Heimir Hallgrimsson signed a new contract before their World Cup play-off in March. That campaign ended in disappointment after a penalty shootout defeat, which ended Ireland’s qualification hopes.
The FAI appear keen to secure Ward’s future as the women’s team eye a first-ever World Cup appearance. The current qualifying cycle has seen steady progress under her guidance, reflected in the team’s improved results and world ranking.
With the Poland fixtures looming, the focus remains on preparation, but the FAI’s commitment to Ward suggests they want continuity as the team looks to build on recent success. The outcome of the play-offs will shape the immediate future for both the squad and their manager.
According to Yahoo Sports.
