Whatever about racism accusations, Willy Sagnol is too badly dressed to be Ireland manager.
Stephen Kelly, watch this space
How about Page?
Wales on the hunt for a new manager as Page is sacked (rte.ie)
two tournaments in fairness
Not for me, but I'd take FAW's Noel Mooney as CEO
I think we should aim for better that's all. I haven't got his record to hand but it seems decent - winning NL B pool is good, does well enough in qualifying or finals tournaments too. Near miss for Euro 2024.
I just think he comes across as a competent manager who gelled with players and got fans' support because he's Welsh and part of their system but if put in the Ireland seat he'd be trying to get the best out of us (and oversee a broader system) as an outsider purely on his ability, and my feeling is that on ability alone he's only a modest candidate and I think gaining the "buy in" of players, public and the domestic coaches he needs to fullfil the FAI brief would be a struggle for him.
The role needs a competent and charismatic Irishman or a very competent and charismatic foreigner. I think the bar is a bit higher for a non-Irishman.
The positives would be that he got Wales promoted and within a shoot out of the Euros* and he's not shy about picking young players yet to be tested at club level.
*Remind me: how did they do in their group? 3rd, but play off via NL?
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