As the mid-2020s approach, the inter-county football scene is undergoing a dramatic transformation, with a notable shift away from Dublin’s once-dominant reign. The landscape now bears a striking resemblance to the early 2000s, with Ulster teams capturing silverware, while Dublin faces increasing uncertainty about their hold on the Leinster Championship.
This change marks a stark contrast to the turn of the decade when Dublin’s dominance seemed unshakable. Back then, the team, led by Jim Gavin, created an era of unmatched success, with many predicting it would never end. But as the 2023 season unfolded, cracks began to show. After securing their most recent All-Ireland title, Dublin experienced a disappointing quarter-final loss in 2024, marking their first failure to reach the All-Ireland semi-finals since 2009. This has been widely interpreted as the end of their golden era, further compounded by key retirements, including the abrupt departure of star player Brian Fenton.
With Dublin’s reign now in decline, other teams are eyeing the top spot. Armagh, who stunned many by winning the 2024 All-Ireland title, are now seen as a strong contender. The team’s remarkable turnaround, which saw them overcome early-season doubts, was highlighted by their dominance in the latter stages of the championship. Under the guidance of manager Kieran McGeeney, Armagh recovered from early setbacks and went on to win their second-ever All-Ireland title, defeating Galway in a nerve-wracking final. McGeeney, whose critics had long questioned his ability to win silverware, now faces a much quieter crowd after proving his worth.
Meanwhile, other counties are also positioning themselves for success in 2025. Donegal, under the guidance of Jim McGuinness, is seen as a team on the rise, with Michael Murphy’s return from retirement bolstering their hopes. Tyrone, having recovered from a tough title defense in 2024, are expected to continue their strong form, especially with the appointment of Malachy O’Rourke as their new manager. Galway, despite a heartbreaking defeat in the 2024 final, remain a formidable force, with star player Paul Conroy earning the Footballer of the Year award.
However, the most intriguing development for 2025 is the potential for an open championship, with Dublin’s vulnerabilities creating a power vacuum at the top. The introduction of new rules, including the two-point arc and three attackers upfield, could further shake up the competitive landscape, making for an unpredictable season ahead.
As the inter-county football scene evolves, the days of Dublin’s dominance seem firmly in the past. With new challengers emerging, the 2025 season promises to be one of the most competitive and open in years.