Rebecca McKenna praises fresh leadership as Northern Ireland eyes future glory in 2026

Northern Ireland manager Michael McArdle has revitalized the team since his arrival in March 2026, with captain Rebecca McKenna highlighting a positive shift in momentum.

New manager brings change Northern Ireland captain Rebecca McKenna described new manager Michael McArdle’s arrival as a revitalizing force since he took charge on April 1, following his appointment in early March. She noted that he has won two out of three matches in his short time at the helm. McKenna shared with the media that the squad is still getting to know him while he learns about them, but his impact has already been felt. She remarked, 'We're still getting to know him and he's still getting to know us but, since he's come in, it's been a breath of fresh air.' ## Future ambitions and progress Despite a recent defeat to Turkey in Istanbul, Northern Ireland has secured a play-off spot for the 2027 World Cup later this year, finishing third in Group B2. McKenna emphasized the team’s collective excitement about the future under McArdle’s leadership. She stated, 'He's really bought into it and everyone here has also bought into it. It's exciting for the future.' The captain also expressed the squad’s ambition to qualify for a major tournament once again. 'I think going forward, we all want to be at a major tournament. It is exciting and we've just got to put the work in.' ## Historical achievements fuel motivation Rebecca McKenna is among six players who competed in Northern Ireland’s historic Euro 2022 campaign. Now, four years later, she is eager for the team to aim higher and create new milestones. Reflecting on the Euros, she said, 'When we qualified for the Euros, it was a great feeling. You get a feeling of being at one major tournament. It gives you that feeling to get there again.' McKenna stressed the importance of hard work to achieve future rewards. 'Everyone's just got to put in the work and I know everyone will. Hopefully, one day we'll get the rewards.' ## Youth integration boosts squad Michael McArdle has made it clear that his focus includes developing a team for the long term. Captain McKenna believes the introduction of younger players has strengthened the group significantly. She explained, 'Obviously, coming in, we've had some fresh faces. That's helped boost the group as well.' The new additions have performed well, with McKenna hopeful their contributions will continue. 'The new players that have come in have done so well and hopefully, we can bring that into tomorrow night.' ## Rising stars make an impact Sixteen of the 23 players in the current Northern Ireland squad are under 25 years old. During the last international window, McArdle handed Linfield youngster Cora Chambers her first cap, while uncapped teenager Emily Cassap earned her first call-up this time around. McKenna highlighted the progress of the younger players, saying, 'Over the last few camps, we've seen a lot more younger ones come through. Any time they've come in, they've stepped up and that's exciting for the future as well.'