Manchester United legend Roy Keane interested in return to management and names ideal ‘option’

Roy Keane would be ‘interested’ in a return to football management if the right opportunity came his way and named the Republic of Ireland job as a potential ‘option’.

The Manchester United legend has not managed a club since an 18-month stint at Ipswich Town came to an end in January 2011. Beforehand he enjoyed success at Sunderland as he guided them to the Premier League.

In the years since he has only served as an assistant manager, holding posts at the Republic of Ireland, Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest. He hasn’t been a coach since 2019 but revealed he wouldn’t be against returning to the dugout.

What Keane said

“Not that you’re going to get the Real Madrid job, but it’s got to be the right challenge, the right club, and the right contract,” Keane said on the Stick to Football podcast when asked if he wants to get back into management.

“I’ve had opportunities, but sometimes you get offered a contract and you have to look at it with self-worth, is it the right deal for you? I’d like to go back in [to management], but I’m not desperate to sign any contract for anybody.  

Topic starts at 19:10

“Your experiences, Frank [Lampard], all of that will make you a better manager. The off-field stuff, dealing with board members, that is tough. That can sap your energy.

“Some clubs, there is always a crisis in there and maybe Everton will be one of them for the next few years, fighting relegation and dealing with boards. Unless you’re at a well-run club, there are those challenges off the pitch. If it was just about working with the team, it would be great.”

Keane then revealed a return to the Republic of Ireland set up, which is currently without a manager after the sacking of Stephen Kenny, could be an ‘option.’

“[On whether the Ireland job would be of interest] Yes, I enjoyed international football when I was a coach there, I like the dynamics of it where you’re not in everyday and it’s not about brining players in and dealing with the board every week.

“That does appeal to me, I did enjoy the dynamics when I was coaching with the Irish team – that could be an option.”