Just as the ROI saw their qualification hopes for Euro 2024 come to an end, it seemed inevitable that Stephen Kenny’s time as manager would do too. So when this Wednesday’s confirmation came that his contract would not be renewed, having been in charge since April 2020 when he replaced Mick McCarthy, the next Republic of Ireland manager odds lit up, with new prospects and gossip as to who might take over the role in the come weeks. So what went wrong for Kenny’s team in the group stages?
Ireland were always going to have a hard time, with France and Netherlands both in the same qualifying group, but falling behind Greece and managing just 6 points from 8 games was certainly not expected. While the presence of injuries can always be touted as a defence, Kenny only accrued 6 wins during his entire tenure in charge, something that cannot be defended easily. Perhaps more friendlies would have helped here, but with the next major games not coming until March 2025’s World Cup qualifiers, there will be plenty of time for the next manager to try and undo these wrongs. So when it comes to who that might be, who do the bookies think could be next?
When it comes to the next Republic of Ireland manager odds, there are four names that have the strongest appeal. At BetVictor, at the time of writing, outsiders Neil Lennon, the ex-Celtic and Omonia manager, and Chris Hughton, ex-Notts Forest and current Ghana manager, both sit at 8/1 odds, meaning a £10 bet would pay £90. In second place at 3/1, meaning a £10 wager would pay £40, is the ex-United legend and former Republic of Ireland assistant manager, Roy Keane. While his time on Sky Sports and as a player is indisputable in terms of quality, his managerial career at Ipswich Town might be his undoing here. Lastly, at 2/1 odds, where a £10 bet would pay £30, is Lee Carsley. Having managed the England U20 and U21 sides since 2020, his international experience would be a great asset, however his 6-year absence from senior coaching and managing could also be a difficult hurdle to overcome.
While there is certainly no time pressure to appoint a new manager, with the next major qualifiers not happening for another few years, the Republic of Ireland have a hard choice on their hands after such a disappointing qualifying attempt for the Euros. At least for now, ROI fans will just have to find another team to support or jeer on at the Euros in 2024. For more football news or to bet on the Euros 2024, be sure to check out the rest of our site today.
