Ger Brennan steps down as Louth manager as speculation around Dublin move intensifies

Ger Brennan has chosen not to take up the option of a third year as Louth manager after leading them to a historic Leinster SFC title in May.

In a statement released on Tuesday evening, the St Vincent’s man thanked Louth GAA for their support in his two years at the helm, which culminated with the county’s first senior provincial crown in 68 years when they defeated Meath in May.

Brennan’s decision will lead to speculation that he could succeed Dessie Farrell as manager of his native Dublin. Farrell stepped down on Saturday after six years in charge.

Two-time All-Ireland SFC winner Brennan, who succeeded Mickey Harte in October 2023, said “the future is bright for Louth football”.

His statement read: “On behalf of the Louth Senior Football Team Management and Staff, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for what has been an extraordinary journey with this incredible organisation.

“I want to thank Chairperson Seán McClean for his unwavering support, always engaged, energetic, and available in his commitment to all things Louth GAA. His leadership and dedication have been instrumental in everything we achieved together.

“My sincere appreciation goes to the Louth County Board, the Louth Clubs, and all the staff at Darver for their tremendous support throughout these past two years. The foundation of support you provided made our work possible.

“Most importantly, I want to express my profound gratitude to the Louth Senior Footballers. It has been an absolute privilege to be part of your journey these past two years. What you have accomplished for the Gaels of County Louth will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come. Your dedication, heart, and commitment have made history.

“As you embark on the next chapter of your journey, I have complete confidence that fresh perspectives will bring new energy and insights to your honest and hardworking team. The future is bright for Louth football.”

Louth’s 2025 season ended in Ballybofey last Sunday week when Donegal knocked them out of the championship at the All-Ireland SFC preliminary quarter-final stage. Last season, they reached the last eight where they were also defeated by the Ulster champions.

County chairman McClean paid tribute to UCD Gaelic Games executive Brennan. “With Ger's expert guidance and the invaluable support of his outstanding management team, our squad achieved remarkable success – including maintaining our Division 2 status and the momentous achievement of bringing the Delaney Cup home to Louth for the first time in 68 years, a truly historic milestone for the County.

“On behalf of everyone at Louth GAA, we want to express our profound gratitude to Ger for the transformative influence he has had during his time with us. The high standards he established, the ambitious vision he shared with us all, and the truly memorable experiences he created will continue to inspire and guide us for years to come.”

The likes of Gavin Devlin, who previously coached Louth and is their current director of under-age development, Tony McEntee and Davy Burke who recently stepped down as Sligo and Roscommon bosses will be linked with succeeding Brennan.

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