Stephen Kenny leaves role as Republic of Ireland boss as FAI chiefs opt against renewing his contract after a dismal Euro 2024 qualifying campaign

The Football Association of Ireland have confirmed Stephen Kenny's departure as Ireland manager after deciding against renewing his contract.

Kenny led the Republic of Ireland for the final time on Tuesday when they drew 1-1 in a friendly against New Zealand in Dublin.

His depature was confirmed by the FAI on Wednesday following a board meeting, which included presentations by chief executive Jonathan Hill and director of football Marc Canham.

In a statement the FAI said results required for Euro 2024 qualification were not achieved, while acknowledging the difficulty of their group.

The FAI board determined a change was needed ahead of friendlies in March and June, ahead of the next Nations League campaign beginning in September.

Hill, however, praised Kenny's efforts in overseeing an 'important period of transition' for the national team. 

'Over the period of his tenure, Stephen and his staff have worked tirelessly to create the right environment to support the development of our senior men's team, and we are hugely grateful for that considerable contribution,' Hill said.

'Stephen has also overseen an important period of transition for our senior men's national team and has given debuts to a significant number of new and younger players and this will serve as a solid platform for whoever now takes this group of players forward.'

FAI President Gerry McAnaney added, 'The Board and all at the FAI would like to sincerely thank Stephen and his staff for their hard work, professionalism and unwavering dedication to the team, the fans, and to Irish football. 

'We wish Stephen every success for the future.'

Ireland ended fourth in their Euro 2024 qualifying group on six points, finishing behind France, the Netherlands and Greece.

Their only points of the group stage came in victories over Gibraltar.

Kenny admitted on Tuesday night that he was not optimistic over remaining in the role.

'Of course, it would be a dream to carry on and manage the team, but my instinct is that's not going to happen,' Kenny said. 'The evidence suggests that probably won't happen, so I respect that as well.'

Kenny was appointed as Mick McCarthy's successor as manager in April 2020, with his promotion from Under-21 boss accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The 52-year-old, who previously led Dundalk to the Europa League group stages, saw his side lose to Slovakia on penalties in the Euro 2020 play-off semi-final.

Ireland earned just nine points in their qualifying campaign for the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup, but was handed a new two-year deal in 2022.

Kenny oversaw 11 wins, 11 draws and 18 defeats during his time as Ireland boss, but defended his record by highlighting that he had handed 24 players their competitive debuts as he attempted to rebuild the national team.