Carla Ward has been appointed as the new head coach of the Republic of Ireland until the end of the 2027 Women's World Cup campaign.
Former Aston Villa boss Ward left her role at the Women's Super League club at the end of last season and now replaces Eileen Gleeson, who was not offered a new contract after Ireland failed to qualify for Euro 2025.
Ward – who was part of the United States coaching staff under Emma Hayes as they won gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics – will take charge with immediate effect ahead of the 2025 Nations League campaign, which begins with a home game against Turkey at Tallaght Stadium on the 21st. February.
“I'm very excited to get started with the Ireland women's national team,” said Ward.
“This is an incredible opportunity, not only with the national team, but to help add to the fantastic work being done to develop women's and girls' football.
“Over the next two and a half years, as we approach the World Cup, we can make a real difference and I'm looking forward to getting started.”
Ward will be supported by assistant coach Alan Mahon, a former Ireland men's international who also worked in the WSL at Manchester City, and goalkeeping coach Emma Byrne – a former Ireland women's captain and caps record holder.
Under Gleeson – who replaced Vera Pauw in the dugout – Ireland were promoted to the Nations League A and reached the second round of the Euro 2025 play-offs, where they went out to Wales over two legs.
Football Association of Ireland boss Marc Canham said: “We are delighted to announce a head coach of Carla's pedigree.
“Being able to provide such a top coach is an expression of our ambition for where our women's national team can go.
“We are delighted to have secured someone who brings the passion, dedication and skill set we set out to find in the recruitment process.
“Carla's experience as a coach, matched with her ability to bring out the best in those around her, marked her as our number one candidate and we are confident she will be a brilliant choice.”