Rory Gallagher steps down as Derry manager

Rory Gallagher has stepped down from his role as Derry Gaelic football manager.

On Friday last, Gallagher agreed to “step back” from the role ahead of the Ulster final win over Armagh, which the Oak Leaf County won 3-1 on penalties following a 1-15 to 0-18 draw after extra-time on Sunday.

In a brief statement on Tuesday evening, Derry GAA have confirmed the Belleek, Co Fermanagh native, has stepped down as manager.

"Derry GAA can today confirm that Rory Gallagher has stepped down as the county’s senior football manager,” read the statement. “Ciaran Meenagh will assume the role for the rest of the 2023 season. Derry GAA will be making no further comment at this time.”

Gallagher's estranged wife Nicola on Tuesday night last posted a detailed statement on Facebook, which cannot be fully published for legal reasons, on her alleged experiences with Rory Gallagher. The couple have three children and lived in Killybegs for a time.

“Silence isn’t the answer, I tried that, I thought I was protecting my children, the only person I was protecting was him,” she said. “Please anyone who’s been through this, speak out. Silence nearly killed me.”

On Thursday, Gallagher’s response read: “I have been made aware of a social media post by my estranged wife Nicola Gallagher in which she has made a number of very serious allegations against me,” read a statement from Rory Gallagher, which was released through his solicitors on Thursday.

“Our marriage broke down over four years ago. Those closest to our family are well aware of the reasons for the breakdown of our marriage and the continued issues we have faced since that time.

“Following long running court proceedings in Family Courts in both jurisdictions, I was granted a full Residence Order in respect of our three young children on 17th February 2023. This outcome was recommended by social services.

“Allegations against me have been investigated and dealt with by the relevant authorities. My focus over the past four years has been to protect our children from the ongoing turmoil in our family.

“I have left this matter in the hands of my legal team and ask that the privacy of our family is respected at this time. I will not be making any further public comment on this matter.”

Derry are in the last 16 group of the All-Ireland SFC with Monaghan, Donegal and Clare.