Carla Ward’s introduction as Ireland’s new coach has been overshadowed by controversy over the departure of former assistant coach Colin Healy.
Ward, who previously managed Aston Villa, faced a barrage of questions during her introductory press conference held at the Aviva Stadium on Thursday, mainly focused on Healy’s departure. The latter had recently made serious accusations against the Irish Football Association (FAI), alleging a lack of “transparency and compassion” following his departure from the national team.
Aged 44, Healy has signaled his intention to lodge a formal complaint with the FAI after claiming head of football Marc Canham unwittingly led him to believe his contract would be extended, despite Ireland’s failure to qualify for Euro 2025. This unexpected turn of events forced Healy to decline an opportunity to manage Cobh Ramblers last November.
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In response to these growing concerns, Canham clarified: “We have not given Colin any formal guarantees. The decision not to renew Eileen’s contract was a purely sporting decision, and the same logic applied to the situation by Colin.”
Last month, the FAI announced that Eileen Gleeson’s contract would not be renewed following a review prompted by a disappointing play-off defeat to Wales — a result which also ended Healy’s position.
FAI chief executive David Courell raised the possibility of Healy returning in a supporting role under Ward, but stressed no guarantees had been formally given in his communications with him. Courell said: “It was clear that Colin’s contract was not renewed. We were always open to the new coach selecting Colin as his number two, but it is fundamentally crucial that the head coach has the autonomy to choose one’s own staff.”
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Previously, Healy aired his grievances through a detailed statement on social media, saying: “I feel the treatment I received lacked transparency and compassion, showing complete disregard for my well-being as a employed — a situation that leaves me unemployed and negatively impacts my ability to provide for my children.”
Amid the raging controversy, Ward has expressed his ambition to lead Ireland to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. Having played a key role in the United States’ Olympic success under coach Emma Hayes, Ward cited Hayes as a significant influence in her professional trajectory.
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When asked if she consulted with Hayes before accepting the position, Ward shared, “Emma has been an incredible mentor to me, like a big sister. She has been my rock through many key moments in my career, offering invaluable advice, particularly before my final interview, for which I am immensely grateful.”
