Ruaidhri Higgins and Derry City part ways by mutual consent

Derry City manager Ruaidhri Higgins has departed the club in the wake of last Sunday's Sports Direct FAI Cup final defeat, the club has confirmed.

The Candystripes lost 2-0 to Drogheda United at the Aviva Stadium, ensuring that they will miss out on European football altogether after a disappointing end to the SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division season saw them slump to a fourth-place finish.

Confirming Higgins' exit on Friday morning, the club's hierachy said: "Derry City Football Club wish to announce that we have released manager Ruaidhrí Higgins from the remainder of his contract by mutual consent.

"During his tenure, Ruaidhrí has led the club to two FAI cup finals, winning the 2022 competition. The side achieved European qualification each season as well as two second place finishes. European qualification was a particular achievement in his first season having inherited a side that was then bottom of the league.

"In 2023 the club progressed to the third qualifying round of the Europa Conference League only eventually losing out on penalties. Ruaidhri's time in charge saw record season ticket sales and strong match attendances.

"The 2024 season ended in disappointment on Sunday with the FAI Cup final defeat, however it should be remembered that the club came within three games of achieving a magnificent double.

"The Board of Directors and everyone involved with Derry City Football Club would like to thank Ruaidhrí for all he has done for the club and we wish him and his family every success for the future.

"Ruaidhrí will always be welcome at the Ryan Mc Bride Brandywell stadium as a long-time Derry City fan.

"The search for a new manager will begin immediately."

Higgins' contract had been due to run until the end of the