Gemma Grainger has stepped down as Wales’ manager to take on the role of head coach for Norway, effective immediately.
The 41-year-old was the leader of Wales for almost three years, leading them to the brink of qualifying for the 2023 Women’s World Cup. However, in the playoff final against Switzerland, they were defeated by a last-minute goal.
Grainger told the Football Association of Wales official website: “Over the last three years I have given my heart and soul to our journey, and I will be forever grateful to have had the opportunity to work with this team and proud nation. It has been an honour and a privilege to work with this group of players and staff, and to represent a nation that has supported the team with incredible pride and passion.
I did not plan to leave Cymru, but I was given an unexpected opportunity that I could not refuse. It was a challenging journey for me to reach this point. Please understand that my decision to leave was not made lightly.
I am certain that this team is prepared to progress and qualify. I have faith that the team will keep progressing and developing from this point on. Wales will always hold a special place in my heart, thank you for everything.
Before becoming the coach of Wales in March 2021, the former manager of Leeds and Middlesbrough had experience coaching different age groups for England. Her last game as the coach was a 0-0 tie against Germany in the Nations League held in Swansea in December.
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FAW CEO Noel Mooney expressed his appreciation for Gemma’s accomplishments as Cymru national team manager. He also stated that they are pleased with the team’s progress under her leadership and will now focus on finding a new manager to help them qualify for Uefa Euro 2025 and the 2027 Fifa World Cup.
Source: theguardian.com
