Mike Solan steps down as Longford senior football manager

The Ballaghaderreen native led the county to promotion from Division 4.

Departing Longford boss Mike Solan. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Mike Solan has left his position as Longford senior football manager after two seasons in charge.

The Ballaghaderreen man, who managed Mayo’s U21s to an All-Ireland title in 2016, had another year remaining on a three-year term.

However, Solan confirmed his decision to vacate the role after guiding Longford to promotion to Division 3 earlier this year.

“I have informed the executive of Longford GAA that I and my management team of Enda McGahern and Joe Keane are stepping down from our roles with the Longford senior football team,” said Solan.

“I would like to place on record my thanks to all involved with the senior football team over the past two seasons. We were lucky to have a fantastic backroom team with people who are very passionate about Longford football.

“A special word of thanks to the players who have worked so hard and represented Longford with such pride and were always fantastic ambassadors for Longford anywhere the team travelled. I am very proud to have been associated with such a brilliant group of men.

“I wish Longford nothing but the very best as the team moves forward after gaining promotion to Division 3 for next season. It is my hope that the team will be supported in every way possible to keep striving to improve and drive the standards needed to keep developing.” 

Replacing former Dublin footballer, Paddy Christie, Solan took over in August 2024 having worked with Andy Moran in the current Mayo’s manager first year in charge of Leitrim. His term in charge of The O’Farrell County was considered a considerable and necessary transition for the county.

The board praised him for his efforts. “Longford GAA sincerely thank Mike Solan and his management team for their excellent work with the Longford senior football team over the past two years and wish them all the very best in their future endeavours.

“Over the past two seasons, 16 new players have made their Longford debuts, with the team and its management securing promotion to Division 3 for 2027, playing in that division for the first time since 2023.

“Mike and his team have built confidence in a young squad and have laid a solid foundation for the years to come. Longford GAA will now begin the process of identifying a new management team and will issue further details on same in due course.” 

Offaly are another Leinster county seeking a senior football manager after the decision of joint bosses Mickey Harte and Declan Kelly to leave last month.