Barry Ryan steps down as manager of Cork City's Women's team

Ryan took to social media to announce that he will be leaving the club.

Mon, 20 Apr, 2026 - 13:51

Andrew Horgan

Barry Ryan has stepped down from his position as manager of the Cork City’s Women’s senior side.

The Tipperary native joined the club initially as manager of the City’s Women’s Under 19 team ahead of the 2025 season and led the Rebel Army to a league quarter-final in his first season in charge.

Then following Frank Kelleher’s decision to step down as City boss for health reasons in August, Ryan was named his successor last October.

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But following a difficult start to the 2026 Women's Premier Division campaign, which has seen the Leesiders lose all four games and scoring just one goal in the process, Ryan took to social media to announce that he will be leaving the club.

“It’s been a difficult start to the season and the entire group has been completely committed to making changes that are uncomfortable but that are necessary for us to get to where we want to go,” he posted.

“I couldn’t possibly put into words the respect and admiration I have for this group of players, but there’s changes that need to be made and a new voice might be able to demand those changes.

“I’d like to thank the club for the opportunity to lead City at both 19s and senior level, it was a privilege I never took lightly.”

Cork City later released the following statement.

"Cork City FC can confirm that we have, reluctantly, accepted the resignation of women's first team manager, Barry Ryan.

"After a very successful season managing our Women's Under 19 team last season, Barry stepped up to the management team of the senior team ahead of the 2026 season.

"The club would like to thank Barry for everything he has done in his time at the club and wish him every success in the future.

"An update on the appointment of a new manager will be provided in due course."