Pádraic Joyce: Galway would probably have been seen as having a soft centre over the years

In the aftermath of their Donegal victory, Joyce revealed that he had text the Armagh boss the night of their Sam Maguire series draw. It was a bold prediction: They would meet again in the showpiece.

Manager Pádraic Joyce poses for a portrait during a Galway GAA All-Ireland Senior Football Championship Final media event at Pearse Stadium in Galway. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

Pádraic Joyce is particularly friendly with two intercounty managers.

To deliver Galway’s first All-Ireland title in 23 years, he will have to beat them both in the All-Ireland semi-final and final.