Paul Clement, a former assistant manager for esteemed clubs such as Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid, is under consideration for the Republic of Ireland’s head coaching position. With a wealth of experience from previous management roles at Derby, Swansea, Reading, and Cercle Brugge, the 52-year-old aims to succeed Stephen Kenny, who did not have his contract renewed last November. Reports indicate that the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has not yet made a final decision, with other potential candidates including current Bayern assistant Anthony Barry and England U21 coach Lee Carsley being considered as well.
Marc Canham, the FAI director of football, has mentioned that the organization is in the final stages of the selection process and is aiming to make an announcement in the near future. Stressing the significance of finding the right individual for the position, Canham has underscored the thoroughness of the process undertaken to ensure a successful appointment.
Ireland’s disappointing performance in the Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, where they finished second-bottom in their group with only six points from eight matches, has prompted the need for a new direction under fresh leadership.
Clement’s most recent role was as a first-team coach at Everton under Frank Lampard before departing from the club in January last year. Of note, he had previously worked with Ireland’s U21s early in his career and had a brief stint as the senior team coach alongside Don Givens before the appointment of Giovanni Trapattoni in 2008.
As the process of finding a new head coach for the Republic of Ireland nears its conclusion, the FAI is faced with the imperative task of guiding the national team towards a more positive direction following their recent setbacks.