O'Neill turns down Blackburn job to remain with NI

TL;DR

Michael O'Neill has declined the permanent managerial position at Blackburn Rovers and will continue as the manager of Northern Ireland. He served as interim manager at Blackburn since February, helping the team avoid relegation.

Key points

Michael O'Neill will remain Northern Ireland manager
He declined the Blackburn Rovers permanent job
O'Neill was interim manager since February
Blackburn finished 20th in the Championship
He had a balanced record of five wins, five draws, and five losses

Mentioned in this story

Michael O'Neill

Blackburn RoversNorthern Ireland

O'Neill helped keep Blackburn Rovers in the Championship after being appointed interim manager in February [Getty Images]

Michael O'Neill will not be taking the Blackburn Rovers job on a permanent basis and will remain in his role as Northern Ireland manager.

O'Neill was appointed interim Rovers boss in February until the end of the 2025-26 campaign, combining the role alongside his position as NI manager.

The 56-year-old won five, drew five and lost five of his 15 games in interim charge as Blackburn finished 20th in the second tier and avoided relegation.

During his job share, O'Neill repeatedly said that he would be unable to do both roles permanently and would have to choose one or the other.

"Following discussions with the club, Michael has decided to continue his long-term commitment to his role as Northern Ireland head coach, with a focus on leading the national team towards qualification for the Uefa European Championships in 2028," Blackburn said in a statement.

Across his two spells in charge of his country, O'Neill has picked up 38 wins, had 23 draws and suffered 43 defeats.

He will now aim to lead Northern Ireland to their first appearance at the Euros since he guided his country to the finals in 2016.

"Blackburn Rovers is a historic football club with a proud tradition and passionate supporters. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working with the players, staff and everyone around the club," O'Neill said.

"After careful consideration, I have decided that my long-term focus must remain with Northern Ireland and the journey towards the European Championship campaign ahead. I would like to thank the owners, board, staff, players and supporters for the welcome and support shown to me during my time at the club."

More to follow.

More to follow.

Q&A

Why did Michael O'Neill turn down the Blackburn Rovers job?

Michael O'Neill decided to remain in his role as Northern Ireland manager instead of taking the Blackburn Rovers job permanently.

What was Michael O'Neill's record as interim manager of Blackburn Rovers?

As interim manager, Michael O'Neill won five, drew five, and lost five of his 15 games in charge.

How did Blackburn Rovers perform under Michael O'Neill's interim management?

Under O'Neill's interim management, Blackburn Rovers finished 20th in the Championship, successfully avoiding relegation.