Aston Villa’s interim stint blocks Sørensen’s Ireland role

Brian Sørensen will not join Carla Ward’s Republic of Ireland women’s coaching set‑up after he accepted an interim charge of Aston Villa’s women’s side, the club confirmed at 7.54 pm on 29 September 2026. The decision reverses an announcement made the previous week that he would serve as Ward’s assistant coach.

Aston Villa were not keen on Sørensen – their women’s technical director – taking on an international role while serving as interim manager. The club feared that double‑jobbing could compromise the focus required for the Villa side. His appointment therefore superseded the expectation that he would continue with the Republic of Ireland set‑up.

Impact on Ireland’s World Cup play‑offs

The change throws a wrench into Ireland’s preparations for the 2027 World Cup play‑offs, which start with an away leg against Kazakhstan next Friday. Carla Ward’s staff now must adjust without the anticipated assistance from Sørensen.

The first leg is scheduled for 9 October in Astana, with the return match on 13 October at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh. The winner will face either Belgium or Poland for a place at the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.

Sørensen’s recent coaching path

Sørensen, a former Everton manager, was set to become Ward’s newest assistant after Gary Cronin left after just over six months. Alan Mahon had previously filled the number‑two role. The vacancy arose following the departure of Natalia Arroyo on Tuesday morning.

Ward, herself a former Villa manager, is not expected to name another assistant immediately as the play‑off preparations continue alongside Amber Whiteley and the rest of her staff. The focus remains on finalising the squad for the Kazakhstan fixtures.

The announcement appeared on a portal that organises content under headings such as Soccer, Rugby, Golf, Racing, Upgrade and the League of Ireland (LOI). It also sits alongside sections for Horse, Boxing, Motorsport, Athletics, NFL and NBA, and is featured in Live Video Review and Podcasts. The story is tagged Sport, Extra, Football and Family, with a link to See More Stories. The accompanying image is a Brian Stock Photo supplied by Alamy, and the byline records the update in the Log under the capitalised name BRIAN SØRENSEN.