Donaghy Joins Kerry Backroom Team for 2026

Kieran Donaghy has been appointed to Kerry’s senior football backroom team for the 2026 season, with Kerry GAA saying his addition “further enhances an already strong support team.” Donaghy, a four‑time All‑Ireland winner and former Footballer of the Year who retired in 2018, spent five seasons as a selector/coach with Armagh under Kieran McGeeney and helped them win the 2024 All‑Ireland before stepping away in July 2025 at the end of that campaign. He will rejoin manager Jack O’Connor — who has signed a new deal — as Kerry prepare to defend their All‑Ireland crown. Donaghy’s credentials include three All‑Stars, previous performance‑coaching work with Galway hurlers, and three Super League basketball titles. Local media and observers say the appointment has renewed speculation he could be considered for a future Kerry senior managerial role or be part of a succession plan for O’Connor.