Carla Ward appointed manager of Republic of Ireland women's team

Michael Bolton

Carla Ward has been appointed the new head coach of the Ireland women’s soccer team.

Ward will take on the role with immediate effect on a deal that will run through the campaign for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.

Ireland get their 2025 Uefa Nations League underway in February with a home game against Turkey in Tallaght Stadium on Friday, February 21st.

Ward has previously managed Sheffield United, Birmingham City and Aston Villa.

Following her appointment, Carla Ward said: “I’m hugely excited to get going with the Ireland women’s national team. 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’m looking forward to getting started.”

FAI 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 where our ambition for our women’s national team where can go.”

FAI CEO David Courell said: “We selected Carla as she possesses the perfect blend of expertise and experience to deliver on our ambition to qualify for major tournaments, competing against the best teams in the world and continuing to grow support for the women’s game in Ireland.”