Newly appointed Republic of Ireland women’s manager Carla Ward faces an immediate challenge—not just in leading the team forward, but in managing the fallout from her predecessor’s exit and the controversial departure of assistant coach Colin Healy.
Ward, who takes over from Eileen Gleeson, has wasted no time in setting her sights on progress, but the lingering Healy dispute has cast a shadow over the start of her tenure.
The Healy Fallout
Healy, a former assistant under Gleeson, was unexpectedly dismissed following Ireland’s Euro 2025 play-off defeat to Wales, despite believing his contract would be extended. The move sparked backlash from senior players, including influential midfielder Denise O’Sullivan, who called the decision “disrespectful” and “lacking class and compassion.”
Addressing the controversy after announcing her first squad for the upcoming Nations League matches, Ward clarified that Healy was never in contention for her backroom staff.
“It wasn’t an option to consider him, because he was gone from the organisation before I came in,” she explained. “If he was in the building, would he have been considered? Yes. But he wasn’t.”
Ward diplomatically distanced herself from the decision, emphasizing that she wasn’t responsible for Healy’s removal but is focused on unifying the squad.
“I believe I can create change. We will move forward and bring people together, with one common goal,” she said.
Squad Development and Future Vision
Beyond the off-field distractions, Ward appears intent on strengthening the team’s structure, particularly in player development. She is pushing for a development squad to bridge the gap between the Under-19s and senior team, a long-overdue initiative after the FAI scrapped home-based training sessions for domestic players last year.
“I would like to see it being permanent,” she said. “There’s untapped talent in this country, so it’s about finding it now.”
Ward, who stepped away from her role as Aston Villa manager last May to spend more time with her daughter, brings a fresh perspective and measured approach to the role. She has already ensured that Emma Byrne remains on the coaching staff, and there are suggestions that recently retired players Niamh Fahey and Diane Caldwell could take on roles within the setup.
A Realistic but Ambitious Approach
Ward acknowledges the pressure that comes with the job, fully aware that results will ultimately define her tenure.
“Naturally, my neck is on the block, right?” she admitted. “If I lose games, it’s going to be you guys coming after me.”
However, she embraces the Irish team’s mentality, describing it as whole-hearted and passionate—qualities she is eager to harness.
“I will do anything to protect the players, to help them, to move forward,” Ward said. “I don’t shy away from anything.”
As she steps into a fractured but promising setup, Ward’s early statements suggest she is pragmatic but optimistic—keen to move past past controversies and reshape the team’s future with unity and ambition.V