Jayne Ludlow has resigned as Wales Women’s manager ‘by mutual consent.’
Ludlow took charge of Wales Women in October 2014 in which she has since become the first Wales Women boss to lead over 50 games, whilst narrowly missing out on qualifying for the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Speaking on her departure, Ludlow said; “My time as the National Team Manager has been an eventful and exciting journey. It has been an honour and an absolute pleasure to have worked with the staff and players across our age group and senior teams.
“There have been several highlights, including our first ever draw against England at Southampton and the magnificent victory over Russia in Newport in June 2018.”
Ludlow also commented on how the role has benefitted her as a manager, saying; “It has been a fantastic learning environment for me personally and I am proud of what we have achieved over the last six years as a group of staff and players, whom I want to thank.”
Looking ahead to the future with rumours circulating surrounding the vacant Team GB manager position, Ludlow said; “I am looking forward to the next challenges, one of which is an exciting opportunity I have to be part of a technical leadership team at FIFA.”
FAW Chief Executive, Jonathan Ford praised Ludlow for playing “a huge part in the progress of the Women’s game in Wales over the past six years, managing the side through three qualification campaigns.”
Pointing to their dramatic 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign as a pivotal moment for the sport, Ford described that period as one which “enhanced the profile of the game throughout the country, inspiring young girls across Wales to play football for the first time.”
Wales eventually missed out on qualification to England following a winners-take-all battle at Rodney Parade, Newport, between the home nations in late August 2018.
Ford also acknowledged Ludlow as “a role model for the women’s game in Wales,” through regular work with schools and attending the National Eisteddfod in an attempt to reach and inspire future generations.”
Wales FA have confirmed that ‘a thorough recruitment process’ is underway for Ludlow’s successor ahead of preparations for their 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifying campaign, which commences in September 2021 ahead of the Finals in Australia and New Zealand from June 2023.
Ludlow’s departure comes as Phil Neville stepped down as England Lionesses’ manager with immediate effect.
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