Gleeson appointed as women’s national team manager

The FAI has appointed Eileen Gleeson as the new manager of the Ireland women’s national team.

Gleeson was appointed on an interim basis following Vera Pauw’s contentious departure following the Women’s World Cup campaign, but a string of successful results has seen Gleeson appointed to the job on a full-time basis.

Gleeson, who previously served as Pauw’s assistant, was in charge of Ireland for 6 games in the Nations League and won all 6 matches, with a recent 6-1 trashing of Northern Ireland serving as a recent highlight.

In a statement, Gleeson said “to have the opportunity to lead my country on the highest stage internationally and be entrusted with the responsibility of maximising the potential of this exciting team and future Ireland players is the proudest and most humbling moment of my life to date.”

“Fresh from the experience of working with our fantastic players and staff during our recent UEFA Nations League campaign, and seeing all of our talented young players at underage level, there is huge potential for us to build on and to ensure consistent regular qualification for and progression in major tournaments.”

“This is an extremely exciting time for Irish Women’s Football. I am truly honoured and privileged to be involved. I look forward to an exciting and busy 2024 on the road to qualification for the UEFA Women’s European Championships in 2025.”

Gleeson is one of Ireland’s most decorated managers, leading Peamount United to two league titles and made history in 2012 as the first Irish team to ever make it out of the group stages in European continental football.

FAI CEO Jonathan Hill, said “we are delighted that Eileen will continue to lead our Ireland Women’s National Team going into the qualifying campaign for EURO 2025.

“This is a special team that has made history. With Eileen, we are confident that we can continue on our journey with qualification to a first-ever European Championships. We will ensure that Eileen gets the full support of the Association to achieve that aim.”

FAI Director of Football, Marc Canham said “we have seen how effective Eileen can be in the role – not just in the results achieved and the football played but in creating a positive, inclusive and high-performing environment that brings the best out of everyone.”