Michael O'Neill: Blackburn Rovers name Northern Ireland manager as new head coach on 'short-term arrangement'
Michael O'Neill succeeds Valerien Ismael, who was sacked on February 2 after less than a year in charge; Blackburn say he has taken over as head coach "on a short-term arrangement"; Rovers sit 22nd in the Sky Bet Championship with 15 games left to play
Friday 13 February 2026 12:52, UK
Blackburn Rovers have announced the appointment of Michael O'Neill as the club's new head coach.
In an announcement on Friday afternoon, Rovers said the 56-year-old had joined "on a short-term arrangement".
Phil Jones and Steve Davies will be part of his backroom staff.
He succeeds Valerien Ismael, who was sacked on February 2 after less than a year in the job at Ewood Park.
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Blackburn sit 22nd in the Sky Bet Championship table with 15 games left to play, inside the relegation zone on goal difference. They have won just one of their last 10 league games.
O'Neill will also continue in his role as Northern Ireland manager, as he did during the first five months of his tenure at Stoke City.
Northern Ireland face Italy in a World Cup play-off semi-final next month, then either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina in a final should they beat Italy.
In a statement posted on the club's official website, O'Neill said: "I am grateful to the Irish FA for their support and cooperation in allowing me to take this opportunity.
"Blackburn Rovers is a historic Premier League-winning club with a proud tradition, and the chance to work at a club of that stature is one I felt was important to embrace.
"The immediate focus is clear - there is a challenge ahead in the final stretch of the season and the objective is to help the team build momentum and climb the Championship table.
"From a professional perspective, being back on the training pitch every day, involved in matches and the rhythm of club football, is always valuable. It keeps you sharp and connected to the demands of the game at this level.
"For now, my focus is on giving everything to Blackburn Rovers in the weeks ahead. I understand what this club means to its supporters and I am looking forward to working with the players and staff to deliver performances the fans can be proud of."
Blackburn's next five Championship fixtures
February 14: QPR (A)
February 20: Preston (H) - Live on Sky Sports
February 24: Bristol City (H)
February 28: Derby (A) - Live on Sky Sports
March 7: Portsmouth (H)
