Republic of Ireland boss focused on World Cup 2027 after snubbing club return
In the high-turnover world of football management, where job security is often as fragile as a one-goal lead, it’s not every day you hear of a manager turning down the glamour and resources of the Women’s Super League. But that’s exactly what Republic of Ireland boss Carla Ward has done—and she’s not looking back.
Just a few months into her tenure as head coach of the Irish women’s national team, Ward has already made it crystal clear: she’s all in.
“I’m in”: Ward message of long-term loyalty
Ward’s comments came this week after announcing her latest squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against Turkey and Slovenia. Speaking to media, the 41-year-old delivered a firm and passionate message about her commitment to the job.
“I’ll tell you one thing,” she began with a smile, “I was offered a WSL job a few weeks ago and I turned it down because I am loving what I am doing.”
That short sentence said a lot. The Women’s Super League, England’s top flight, is widely considered one of the most competitive and professional leagues in the women’s game. For a coach with Ward’s resume—former boss of Aston Villa, Birmingham City, and Sheffield United—it would be a natural return. But instead, she’s chosen a different path. A harder path, perhaps. But a path she says she’s proud to be walking.
“Listen, I really wanted the Ireland job. I turned down two other countries that offered me the job whilst I was in the interview process for Ireland because I wholeheartedly wanted to manage this country,” Ward revealed. “So when I say I am in, I am in.”
A coach with WSL pedigree
To fully appreciate the weight of Ward’s decision, you have to look at her background. Few coaches working in the women’s game have her blend of experience and respect. She made her name managing Birmingham City during a tumultuous time for the club, guiding them to safety in the WSL despite limited resources and off-field uncertainty. Then came a more stable stint at Aston Villa, where she helped transform the team into an increasingly competitive force.
Ward stepped away from the Villa role in May 2023, citing the need to spend time with her young family and take stock after a long stretch in club football. When the Republic of Ireland opportunity came knocking, she didn’t hesitate.
Now, only a few months into her international tenure, she’s already faced a broad range of emotions—from the joy of winning three of her first four Nations League games, to the sting of a 4-0 defeat to Slovenia. But what’s struck most observers is her intensity, drive, and above all, her vision for Irish football.
Thinking beyond the touchline
Ward isn’t just focused on matchdays. She’s been heavily involved in bigger-picture conversations with the FAI, looking to help shape the future of the women’s game in Ireland. In her words, it’s about more than tactics—it’s about legacy.
“I am talking long term to the board,” she said. “Not just around the next two games, but how we develop the League of Ireland—we’ve spoken a lot about that—so there is a bigger picture here.”
Her desire to develop the domestic game echoes the path taken by many successful international managers who understood that elite results can’t be achieved without grassroots development. Ward appears to be approaching the Ireland job with a similar outlook, one that encompasses not just the senior squad, but the entire infrastructure of women’s football in the country.
Stepping into big shoes—and making them her own
Ward succeeded Eileen Gleeson in January 2025, taking over a squad still adjusting to life after the 2023 World Cup and the end of Vera Pauw’s tenure. Ireland had made their tournament debut in Australia and New Zealand, falling at the group stage but gaining invaluable experience on the world stage.
There was a fear that post-World Cup momentum might fade, but Ward has helped ensure the opposite. Wins over Hungary and Turkey in the Nations League were solid, if expected. But what Ward has been quick to stress is that these results are just the beginning. The endgame is clear: qualification for the 2027 World Cup, which begins its journey in February.
While Ireland’s FIFA ranking places them outside the top tier of contenders, Ward has shown she’s not interested in excuses. She wants this team to compete. And more importantly, she wants them to grow.
Pride and passion on the sidelines
For Ward, there’s also a deeply personal connection to the job—one that goes beyond football. “I have loved being here,” she said. “There have been some challenges of course, but I love being here. I am proud to represent this country.”
That word—proud—is one that came up repeatedly. In an era when football management can sometimes feel transactional, Ward’s sincerity is refreshing. She’s not seeing this role as a stepping stone. She’s seeing it as a destination.
And perhaps that’s why the decision to turn down a WSL offer, something that many in the game would leap at, makes perfect sense to her. Ward doesn’t want to be just another coach in a revolving door of appointments. She wants to build something lasting in Irish football.
Eyes on Slovenia—and beyond
Ireland’s immediate focus now turns to two crucial Nations League fixtures. The rematch with Slovenia will be particularly significant, not only to avenge the earlier heavy defeat but to show that the team is learning and evolving under their new boss.
But whatever happens on the pitch in the short term, it’s clear that Carla Ward has made her intentions known. She’s chosen passion and purpose over prestige. And in doing so, the Republic of Ireland might just have found not only a coach, but a leader ready to take them to the next level.
