Blow for Stephen Kenny as Anthony Barry departs to join Belgium

7 September 2021; Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny with coach Anthony Barry during the FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifying group A match between Republic of Ireland and Serbia at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Photo by Harry Murphy/Sportsfile

Ireland boss Stephen Kenny has been dealt a fresh blow with news that highly-regarded coach Anthony Barry has left the Ireland setup to take on a job with the Belgium national team with immediate effect.

Barry joined Stephen Kenny's coaching staff in February 2021 for the FIFA 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign but the FAI confirmed today he will now move to Belgium ahead of the FIFA 2022 World Cup finals later this year in Qatar.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time with the team and really enjoyed working with Stephen and the entire backroom staff and players. I've been fortunate to work with some outstanding managers in my career and Stephen certainly falls into that bracket," said Barry.

"The opportunity to move on to Belgium and to have the chance to take part in the World Cup Finals was one I felt I couldn't turn down. Of course, I wish all of the team the very best of luck for the future."

"I'd like to thank Anthony for the positive contribution he has made over the past year with the players and staff alike," said Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny.

"Anthony had a great rapport with the staff and players, he was thought-provoking, an exceptional coach and a joy to work with. We respect his decision and he leaves with our best wishes."

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