Northern Ireland manager O’Neill signs four-year contract

Michael O’Neill has committed his long-term future to Northern Ireland, signing a new four-year contract to remain as manager until 2032. The 56-year-old made the decision just two weeks after turning down an offer to take the permanent manager’s position at Championship club Blackburn Rovers.

The Irish Football Association announced the extension on Wednesday. O’Neill, who is in his second stint in charge of the national team, has managed a record 104 matches for his side. He first took the role in 2011 and famously led Northern Ireland to Euro 2016, ending a 30-year absence from major tournaments.

O’Neill had been juggling dual roles since February, serving as interim manager at Blackburn while continuing his national team duties. He guided the club to safety in the Championship but ultimately chose to remain in international football. He said the potential of a young Northern Ireland squad, and the ambition to qualify for Euro 2028, were central to his decision.

He stated that he was flattered by Blackburn’s offer but felt he could not walk away from the project he has started with Northern Ireland. He described the experience of taking his country to a major tournament as...