New Head Coach for Republic of Ireland Senior Men’s National Team: Heimir Hallgrímsson
– **Heimir Hallgrímsson** named Head Coach of the Republic of Ireland Senior Men’s National Team
– Former Iceland and Jamaica manager to lead team in UEFA Nations League & 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign
– Official opening at the Aviva Stadium press conference tomorrow (11.07.24)
The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has announced the appointment of Heimir Hallgrímsson as Head Coach of the Senior Men’s National Team. Hallgrímsson, previously head coach of Iceland and Jamaica, will lead Ireland in their UEFA Nations League and 2026 FIFA World Cup campaigns.
Hallgrímsson’s first Competitive Match
Hallgrímsson will manage his first competitive match this September when Ireland face England in the UEFA Nations League.
Official Opening
The new Head Coach will be officially announced at a press conference at the Aviva Stadium tomorrow (11.07.24).
Hallgrímsson’s Extensive Experience
Heimir Hallgrímsson was identified as the FAI’s top candidate earlier this year due to his experience and alignment with the Association’s search criteria, including:
– Previous international Head Coach experience
– Proven track record of improving the FIFA world rankings
– Qualifying and successfully competing in major tournaments
– Expertise in youth development and advancement
A notable achievement
Iceland National Team-
**Assistant Manager to Lars Lagerback (2011-2013)**
– **Joint Head Coach with Lagerback (2013-2016)**
– **Single Coach (2016-2018)**
– Guided Iceland to the quarter-finals of UEFA EURO 2016, eliminating England in the last 16
– Qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup
– Reached the qualifying playoffs for the 2014 FIFA World Cup
– Iceland’s highest FIFA ranking is 18th
Jamaica National Team
– **Head Coach (2022-2024)**
– lead Jamaica to qualification for Conmebol Copa America 2024
– Improved FIFA world ranking from 64 to 53
– Withdrawal after the conclusion of the Copa America 2024 campaign
Al-Arabi Club
– **Head Coach (2018-2021)**
– Gain club experience in the Qatar Star League
Comment from Heimir Hallgrímsson
Heimir Hallgrímsson expressed his enthusiasm about his new role:
> “It is an honor to be appointed Head Coach of the Irish Senior Men’s National Team. Ireland is a proud football nation with talented players and unforgettable international tournament moments. We have a young and diverse team with genuine potential. I look forward to -want to work with the players to improve their performance and results, to qualify and compete in major tournaments on a regular basis.I also really want to get to know the Irish people and the wonderful Irish football fans develop the team to produce results on the field and make the supporters proud.
Statement by FAI Director of Football Marc Canham
FAI Director of Football, Marc Canham, commented on the appointment:
> “We are pleased to announce Heimir as the new Head Coach. Heimir’s international experience with Iceland and Jamaica, together with his track record of qualifying for major tournaments and increasing the FIFA ranking, make him the number one candidate. It is important for us to recruit Head coaches interested in the overall development of football in Ireland, as outlined in the FAI football pathway. Heimir is very pleased with the development of the young international team. I would also like to thank John O’Shea and his staff for their excellent work in guiding the team through new matches, create a good environment for the players, and get positive results on the field.
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This announcement emphasizes Heimir Hallgrímsson’s extensive experience and qualifications, highlighting his previous success and his goals for the Republic of Ireland Senior Men’s National Team.
