Manager Gleeson to leave Republic of Ireland role

Republic of Ireland manager Eileen Gleeson will not be offered a new contract by the Football Association of Ireland [FAI].

Initially appointed on an interim basis in August 2023 to replace Vera Pauw, the former Peamount United manager was made permanent boss in December of last year but this month saw her side fail to qualify for Euro 2025.

Drawn against three of the game's heavyweights in England, Sweden, and France, Republic of Ireland finished bottom of their 2024 Nations League group, although did enjoy a memorable win over the latter in Cork.

They eased past Georgia to make it to the final qualification play-off round but were beaten by Wales over two legs this month, with failure to make it to Switzerland marking the end of Gleeson's contract.

She avoided discussing her future in the aftermath of the loss but, after a meeting of the FAI board and following a review, it was decided not to offer a new deal.

FAI chief football officer Marc Canham said: "It is important to recognise the leadership that Eileen brought to our women's national team in topping our League B in the UEFA Nations League, guiding them into the qualifying play-offs for Euro 2025 and continuing to build on the legacy that has developed over recent years."

The FAI have said the search for Gleeson's successor will begin "immediately".

Analysis - Gleeson still has much to offer

BBC Sport NI's Andy Gray

Just 16 months after Eileen Gleeson's appointment as Vera Pauw's successor, on an interim basis before a permanent deal, the FAI are back on the managerial hunt.

After the turbulent exit of Pauw, Gleeson came in and steadied the ship, and was a popular figure within the dressing room.

There had been elements of progress on the pitch, and the famous win over France in Cork will live long in the memory.

However, the ultimate goal was Euro 2025 qualification and the Republic fell short in what can only be described as a missed opportunity.

In saying that, it would be a shame if there was not a role for Gleeson down the line given her work with girls' and women's football in the Republic of Ireland.

There's no doubt she has more to offer the sport she loves so much but, after Wednesday's announcement, it won't be as her country's senior manager.