Northern Ireland senior men’s manager Michael O’Neill has signed a new four-year contract extension, keeping him in charge until 2032.
O’Neill, who returned to the role in 2022 for a second spell as senior men’s manager, will now continue leading Northern Ireland into the next phase of international competition and development. To date he has managed a record-breaking 104 games for his country.
O’Neill famously guided the senior men’s team to UEFA Euro 2016 – the country’s first major tournament appearance in 30 years – as well as topping League C, Group 3 of the UEFA Nations League in 2024, earning promotion to League B. The team also reached a FIFA World Cup play-off in March this year, narrowly losing away to Italy.
Speaking about the extension, O’Neill said he was proud to continue leading Northern Ireland and remained fully committed to building a successful future for the senior men’s team.
“This is a role that means a great deal to me,” he said.
“I continue to believe strongly in the potential of this group of players and the direction we are moving in. There is a lot of work ahead, but I am excited by the future."
Irish FA President Conrad Kirkwood welcomed the news and praised O’Neill’s ongoing contribution:
“Michael has made a massive contribution to Northern Ireland so far,” said Kirkwood.
“I am delighted that he will continue that work into the future and I look forward to more memorable achievements for the team in the future.”
Irish FA Chief Executive Officer, Patrick Nelson, said: "Having worked with Michael for more than 11 years now, I know the expertise and professionalism he brings to the role. The future of this young, exciting team remains in good hands.”
Irish FA Technical Director, Aaron Hughes, said:
“We are delighted Michael will be staying on for another four years. While his primary focus is naturally the senior men’s team, he’s heavily invested across all of our underage teams and wider player pathway.
"His input and contribution to so much of the work taking place behind the scenes across the association is extremely important. To see this continuing will be of huge benefit."
The new agreement provides long-term stability and continuity for the senior men’s international setup as preparations continue for the forthcoming UEFA Nations League campaign this September and the qualifying campaign for UEFA Euro 2028 which starts next year.
