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Shelbourne Confirm Departure of Head Coach Joey O’Brien
Thursday 25th June 2026, 11:24am
Shelbourne FC has confirmed the departure of head coach Joey O’Brien following a difficult season at Tolka Park.
O’Brien first arrived at Tolka Park as assistant manager in the winter of 2021 and in 2024 he helped guide Shelbourne to the League of Ireland title.
U20s head coach Lorcan Fitzgerald will take interim charge of the team while the process to appoint a new first team Head Coach is concluded.
Shelbourne FC released the following statement:
“Shelbourne FC can confirm the departure of head coach Joey O’Brien from the club. The club wishes to place on record our sincere appreciation for Joey’s contribution during his time at Tolka Park.
“Having arrived first as assistant manager in the winter of 2021, Joey played a pivotal role as the Reds returned to life in the Premier Division finishing seventh in the first season while reaching the FAI Cup final. In 2023, a fourth placed finish saw the Reds return to European football. The following season he helped guide Shels to the League of Ireland title, an achievement that will live long in the heart of every Shels fan.
“Having taken on the role of head coach in June 2025, O’Brien guided the Reds to the league phase of the UEFA Conference League and a third place finish in the League of Ireland.
“All involved with Shels thank Joey for the huge contribution he has made to the club and wish him the very best for his future endeavours.
“Reds U20s head coach Lorcan Fitzgerald will take interim charge of the team while the process to appoint a new first team Head Coach is concluded”.
