2025 football management team guide: Ulster in vogue

DIVISION 1

Armagh

Manager: Kieran McGeeney

Year: Eleven

Notes: Last year's notes focused on 'Geezer’s’ bumpy reappointment as some clubs pushed for his removal, but a year on and there’s talk of statues as he guided the county to only their second-ever All-Ireland title having captained them to their 2002 success.

Eleven seasons in charge is extraordinarily long in today’s cutthroat environment but the Orchard County have been rewarded for their patience.

The backroom team remains the same with Kieran Donaghy back on board after some speculation that he may call time.

Derry

Manager: Paddy Tally

Year: One

Notes: After a long, drawn out process following Mickey Harte’s exit, Paddy Tally, who had originally committed to Kerry for 2025, made a return to Derry – this time as manager.

Paul McIver, whose father Brian was a previous Oakleaf boss, is head coach while Kevin McGuckin and Paul McFlynn, who worked under Harte, also form part of the management team.

Cairbre Ó Cairealláin - formerly with the Limerick and Tipperary hurlers and brother of Kneecap star Móglaí Bap – is a notable addition as S&C coach.

Donegal

Manager: Jim McGuinness

Year: Two

Notes: The big news in the off-season was the confirmation that Michael Murphy was stepping out of retirement having played a key role with the Football Review Committee that introduced a raft of new rules.

Also back are Eoin McHugh, Eoghan McGettigan, Odhran McFadden-Ferry and Finbar Roarty.

On the sidelines it’s as you were with Neil McGee, Colm McFadden and Luke Barrett remaining on board as part of McGuinness’ management team.

Dublin

Manager: Dessie Farrell

Year: Six

Notes: Dessie Farrell is back for a sixth year though his term is due to come to an end at the conclusion of this season.

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