Aoife Mannion: I like Eilo, it was a surprise she didn't stay

Springtime is coming; a time for freshness, growth, rebirth. The Republic of Ireland start a new Nations League campaign on Friday against Turkey, and they need a little light.

The Girls in Green endured a miserable winter after Wales gatecrashed Dublin to prevail in the Euro 2025 play-off final. That proved to be the end of the Eileen Gleeson era.

The FAI opted against renewing her contract as head coach, while the messy departure of Gleeson's assistant Colin Healy continues to hang over the association. The Corkman claimed he'd previously been informed there would be a recommendation that his contract be extended. Denise O'Sullivan would later say the handling of his exit "lacked class... lacked compassion".

Aoife Mannion faced the media at FAI HQ on Monday morning in reflective mood. She missed the Wales games due to injury, but is getting minutes again at Manchester United and is excited for the Ward era. Still, seeing the previous regime's reign unravel as it did wasn't pleasant.

"I really liked Eilo and I really enjoyed camp, so it was a surprise for me when she wasn't kept on," said the 29-year-old defender.

"It wasn't something that was on my radar. As players these decisions are made above us and not something we have a say in. I like Eilo, I liked the feel of the camps and so it was, one, really disappointing that we didn’t get through, that we didn’t qualify; and then obviously for her on a personal level that’s really disappointing as well.

"We always have to turn up and appreciate the honour it is to play for the Ireland team regardless of who the management staff is, and it’s for (new head coach) Carla Ward now to put her stamp on it, it’s her fresh start, and to continue that good feeling and the excitement it