Former Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny has claimed he was "immensely proud" to have been Ireland boss, hours after he and the FAI (Football Association of Ireland) decided it was the right time to part ways.
Kenny's dismissal reign as Ireland boss ended after the drab 1-1 draw with New Zealand in Dublin this week. Kenny's record after 40 matches stood at 11 wins, 12 draws and 17 defeats, which means his win percentage of 27.5% was the worst out of the previous Ireland managers before him.
His three-year Ireland reign came to an end on Wednesday evening when the FAI released a statement saying that now was the time for change. His contract was not be renewed going into 2024
"Having reviewed the EURO 2024 qualification campaign in its entirety and recognizing how difficult the Group was, the results needed to realize our goal of qualification for the Tournament were not achieved," said the FAI.
"The Board agrees that now is the right time for change ahead of the friendly matches in March and June 2024 and the next Nations League campaign starting in September 2024."
Kenny, hours later, released his own statement highlighting his pride in being the Ireland boss and thanked the players for their contribution.
“I am immensely proud to have served as Republic of Ireland Manager, and it has been the ultimate honour to manage my country,” Kenny said.
“I want to thank all of the players who have represented Ireland during my tenure for their exceptional attitude and high level of professionalism. It has been really special to have been an integral part of their journey on the international stage."
Kenny took the role in 2020 and had tried to turn Ireland into a possession-based side, but it never came to fruition. However, his reign will best be remembered for the number of debuts he gave to younger players. The 52-year-old now believes his fledgling young stars can go on to do wonderful things in future tournaments.
Following a board meeting this evening, the FAI can confirm that Stephen Kenny will not continue in his role as manager of the senior men’s national team
“The Board and all at the FAI would like to sincerely thank Stephen and his staff for their hard work, professionalism and… pic.twitter.com/RX20yRDYWe
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) November 22, 2023
"I have had the privilege of overseeing the evolution of the squad for the past three years, and I am genuinely excited about the future of this group of players and look forward to seeing them mature and fulfil their collective potential," he added.
The final part of the statement held thank-yous' to former staff members of Kenny's backroom team, past and present.
“I want to acknowledge the immense contribution of Keith Andrews, John O’Shea, Dean Kiely, Stephen Rice, Damian Doyle, and all the backroom team and thank them for their exceptional work ethic and professionalism and everybody working at all levels of the FAI for their support and cooperation."
There was also gratitude to Irish football fans home and abroad that were part of the the mixed Kenny era.
“Some special words of gratitude to the Irish football supporters; it has been one of my great privileges in life to witness the bond between this team and the supporters and all the kind words of encouragement I received in stadiums, clubhouses, on the streets, and in airports home and abroad.
"On behalf of the team, I thank you all for your incredible support right through to the end. My commitment to Irish football remains resolute, and I look forward to supporting the team and wishing them every success,” Kenny concluded.
The hunt for Kenny's successor is now underway, confirmed the FAI in a press release on Wednesday.
