Fermanagh GAA have confirmed that senior inter-county football team manager Kieran Donnelly has stepped down from his role after five years in charge.According to a statement posted on Fermanagh GAA's website this morning the ex-Erne County player met with officers over the weekend to inform them of his decision.Donnelly becomes the 12th inter-county football manager to exit their following the 2025 season.In a statement Fermanagh GAA said: "Fermanagh GAA would like to sincerely thank Kieran and his entire backroom team for their dedication and commitment over the last four years. Transitioning from Covid and the new playing rules has not been an easy task."At the start of the season Donnelly's team were fourth in Allianz Football League Division 3 having previously gained promotion in 2023.Donnelly's final year in charge was hindered by two near misses with the side throwing away a match-winning position in their Ulster clash against Down.They were also level with Kildare in the Tailteann Cup semi-final with 15 minutes to go before falling away in the final minutes having coughed up two goal chances in those final minutes.The statement added: "While silverware may have eluded, Kieran brought a great culture and positive environment to the senior side. We wish Kieran, his family and all the backroom team every success in the future."Donnelly detailed in the statement that it was a "privilege" to serve as manager.He said: "It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as manager of the Fermanagh senior football team. I wish to extend my sincere gratitude to my backroom team for their dedication and professionalism throughout my tenure."The players have shown tremendous growth and development, and I am proud of the progress the squad has made during this period. I would like to wish the players, management, and supporters of Fermanagh GAA every success in the years ahead."Speculation had been rife that Donnelly was planning to step away ever since that Kildare loss, although he had to delay the decision, while his number two, former Tyrone player Ronan O'Neill, has been linked with a place in Gavin Devlin’s management team in Louth, although O’Neill has downplayed such suggestions.
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