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Damien Duff Resigns as League of Ireland Champions Shelbourne Manager After 'Pub Team' Rant Ahead of Champions League Qualifiers

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Updated Jul 4, 2025, 12:04 AM

Damien Duff has resigned as manager of Shelbourne, the League of Ireland Premier Division champions, just weeks before the club's scheduled Champions League qualifiers. Duff informed the players and the club of his decision on the morning of June 22, 2025. Shelbourne expressed that they were "deeply saddened" but fully respected his choice. The resignation follows a controversial period including Duff's public comparison of his players to a "pub team" after a recent defeat.

Despite the club's ongoing pursuit of new signings and Champions League qualification, Duff's departure marks the end of a transformative tenure at Shelbourne. The club played to a 2-2 draw against Waterford shortly after his exit, with Harry Wood scoring twice. Duff's sudden resignation has sparked discussion among football commentators and former players, with some noting the challenging timing given the upcoming European fixtures. Joey O'Brien, Shelbourne's assistant manager, has taken over as caretaker manager. There is speculation that Duff, a former Chelsea and Fulham winger, may be close to securing a managerial role in the English Premier League.

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