Ruaidhrí Higgins leaves role as Derry City manager

Michael Bolton

Derry City manager Ruaidhri Higgins has departed the club in the wake of their FAI Cup final loss to Drogheda.

The 40-year-old has been at the helm at the club he represented as a player since 2021 and guided Derry to FAI Cup glory in 2022 as well as winning the President's Cup the following year.

In the league, he also led Derry to back-to-back runner-up finishes in 2022 and 2023.

A poor run of form at the end of the season saw Derry fade from Premier Division title contenders to missing out on European qualification.

Higgins says it was 'disappointing' to fall short in their target to land a domestic double this year.

In a statement from Derry City, they said: "During his tenure, Ruaidhrí has led the club to two FAI cup finals, winning the 2022 competition. The side achieved European qualification each season as well as two second place finishes. European qualification was a particular achievement in his first season having inherited a side that was then bottom of the league.

"In 2023 the club progressed to the third qualifying round of the Europa Conference League only eventually losing out on penalties. Ruaidhri’s time in charge saw record season ticket sales and strong match attendances.

"The 2024 season ended in disappointment on Sunday with the FAI Cup final defeat, however it should be remembered that the club came within three games of achieving a magnificent double.

"The Board of Directors and everyone involved with Derry City Football Club would like to thank Ruaidhrí for all he has done for the club and we wish him and his family every success for the future.

"Ruaidhrí will always be welcome at the Ryan Mc Bride Brandywell stadium as a long-time Derry City fan.

"The search for a new manager will begin immediately."

Derry's captain Patrick McEleney has also left the club today.

He has signed for Irish League team Ballymena United in January after his contract expires with the Candystripes.