Derry GAA confirm Ciaran Meenagh as new senior football manager
The Oak Leafers have acted promptly in appointing a new manager following an extended search for Mickey Harte's successor last year.
Paddy Tally was eventually appointed last November, but the Galbally native resigned last month after a disappointing 2025 season where Derry didn't secure a single victory.
Meenagh had a five-season stint with Derry from 2019 until 2023, during which he took on the role of interim manager when Rory Gallagher stepped down before the Ulster final.
The Loughmacrory clubman spent his last two seasons with Down as part of Conor Laverty's management team. The Mournemen clinched the Tailteann Cup last season and made it to the preliminary quarter-final in the Sam Maguire Cup, reports Belfast Live.
Derry confirmed on Thursday night that former captain Chrissy McKaigue will be joining Meenagh's management team.
The statement read: "Following Thursday night's meeting of Coiste Chontae Dhoire, Derry GAA is pleased to announce the appointment of Ciaran Meenagh as senior football manager.
"Ciaran Meenagh first joined the Derry senior football management team in late 2018 and served for five seasons as a coach and later as manager – a period that included promotion from Division Four to Division One and back-to-back Ulster Senior Football titles.
"He will lead a management team that includes former Derry captain and All-Star footballer Chrissy McKaigue.
"Delegates also ratified the re-appointment of Under 20 football, Minor football, Senior hurling, Under 20 hurling and Minor hurling management teams. We wish all management teams and their playing panel every success for the 2026 season."
Whilst Meenagh's remaining backroom staff are yet to be announced, names including Marty Boyle, Barry Dillon and Paul McFlynn have emerged in recent days, with rumours also suggesting former Derry forward Benny Heron could join the coaching setup.
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