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O'Neill Set to Join Blackburn While Leading Northern Ireland

2/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Michael O'Neill, the Northern Ireland manager, is poised to join Blackburn Rovers as joint-manager.
O'Neill will remain with the national team, facing Italy in a World Cup play-off semi-final.
A potential match against Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina could follow.
If Northern Ireland qualifies for the World Cup, O'Neill will continue both roles.
Blackburn Rovers sit in relegation zone and seek a permanent manager after Valerien Ismael's departure, with confirmation possible later today.

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Story summary

Michael O'Neill, the Northern Ireland manager, is poised to join Blackburn Rovers as joint-manager.
O'Neill will remain with the national team, facing Italy in a World Cup play-off semi-final.
A potential match against Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina could follow.
If Northern Ireland qualifies for the World Cup, O'Neill will continue both roles.
Blackburn Rovers sit in relegation zone and seek a permanent manager after Valerien Ismael's departure, with confirmation possible later today.