Donegal confirm Paddy Carr as manager with Aidan O'Rourke taking head coach reins

Paddy Carr has been ratified as the new Donegal senior football team manager with Aidan O'Rourke appointed as his head coach.

O'Rourke and Carr were officially given the seal of approval at a specially convened meeting of the Donegal county committee on Monday night.

They have been given an initial two-year term, with a review after the first year.

In a statement, Donegal GAA said: "Donegal County Committee this evening ratified the decision of the County Executive to appoint Paddy Carr as the manager of the CLG Dhún na nGall Senior Squad.

"Joining Paddy as head coach will be Armagh man Aidan O'Rourke. County Chairperson, Mick McGrath welcomed Paddy to the position on behalf of Donegal GAA and wish him and Aidan well in 2023.

"Carr is a member of Fanad whilst head coach, O’Rourke is currently employed as Performance Sport Manager in Queen’s University Belfast and holds extensive coaching qualifications and experience.

"Carr told the Donegal Executive that he would give his body, soul, heart and mind to Donegal football and was delighted to be appointed."

Local reports state that whilst both men interviewed separately for the role, they came together last week to form the new management set-up.

Donegal have been looking for a manager since late 20 July when Declan Bonner stepped down.

2012 All-Ireland winner Rory Kavanagh was in pole position for the job but it is believed he stepped out of the running last week.

From there O’Rourke and Carr combined and were approved by the 40 clubs of the county.

Both men are vastly experienced in the game. Carr featured for Donegal in the 1980 Ulster SFC.

He led Kilmacud Crokes to the 2009 All-Ireland senior title.

Meanwhile, O’Rourke is highly regarded in the game.

A former Louth manager also, he