Heimir Hallgrímsson journeyed to Waterford earlier this week with an intention of discussing John O’Shea’s possible inclusion in the Republic of Ireland coaching crew, in the capacity of an assistant. Previously, O’Shea made apparent his interest in managing the Irish team while temporarily supervising friendlies against Belgium, Switzerland, Hungary, and Portugal in the past year.
Marc Canham, FAI’s Football Director, recently confirmed that Hallgrímsson was always their top candidate, and they patiently anticipated the conclusion of his tenure as Jamaica’s manager after the Copa America.
Hallgrímsson, an Icelander whose contract pertains till the 2026 World Cup, remains receptive to O’Shea becoming a part of the FAI’s future plan.
Having formerly co-managed Iceland’s national team with Lars Lagerbäck, a Swedish coach for three years before eventually taking over the position post-Euro 2016, Hallgrímsson shed light on the importance of continuity. He mentioned that an assistant coach, carrying the torch to the next era, should be a core part of any successful transition plan.
However, Hallgrímsson also acknowledged the challenge of transitioning from a head coach role to an assistant, stressing the importance of robust character in doing so. However, it’s yet ambiguous whether O’Shea, who previously managed the national team for four matches in 2024, is open to this dual role as an assistant coach for Ireland and a British club team.
FAI have also decided to retain backroom coaches Paddy McCarthy and Glenn Whelan, as revealed by Canham. This decision comes well in time before the Nations League match against England, scheduled for the 7th of September.
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