Derry GAA confirm Mickey Harte as their new senior football manager

Derry GAA have officially appointed Mickey Harte as manager of their senior football team.

Harte has been handed a three-year term and will be joined on his management team by Gavin Devlin, who also assisted him during his time in charge of his native Tyrone and also during his recent spell as Louth boss.

The shock news that Harte was leaving Louth to take up the managerial role in Derry only emerged on Monday evening, with Oak Leaf officials then moving quickly to arrange a county board meeting for Tuesday night, at which the three-time All-Ireland winning manager was ratified.

“Following tonight’s meeting of Coiste Chontae Dhoire, Derry GAA are pleased to announce the senior football management team for the incoming year,” confirmed a Derry GAA statement.

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“Multiple All-Ireland winning manager Mickey Harte has been appointed on a three-year term and will lead a management team including Gavin Devlin. Further details about the back room team will be confirmed in due course.

“We wish both the management team and playing panel every success for the 2024 season.”

The appointment of Harte comes 30 years to the day of Derry’s 1993 All-Ireland final triumph – the county’s sole Sam Maguire success. It is hoped Harte’s arrival can bridge that gap and bring another All-Ireland back to the county over the coming seasons.

Next week marks the 20th anniversary of Harte leading Tyrone to their maiden All-Ireland victory.

Derry, who have won the last two Ulster titles, are seen as genuine All-Ireland contenders. Their 2023 season was not without its difficulties though, as manager Rory Gallagher was forced to step down prior to the provincial final after allegations by his former wife, Nicola, of domestic abuse.

Ciarán Meenagh carried out the role of interim boss for the rest of the summer, but when it emerged he would not be seeking the position on a more permanent basis, it ultimately led to Derry officials sounding out Harte for the role.