Grainger Resigns as Wales Women’s Manager

Gemma Grainger has resigned as manager of Wales Women after three years in charge. 

Grainger was first appointed as manager in March 2021 and almost took Wales to the FIFA Women’s World Cup, but lost to Switzerland in their Play-Off Final after extra-time as the Swiss qualified and ultimately reached the Last 16.

Wales went on to suffer relegation from League A in last Autumn’s inaugural UEFA Women’s Nations League, during which their sole point in their group came in a goalless draw at home to Germany.

Norway however have swooped to sign Grainger as their new manager following Hege Riise’s departure.

Addressing her decision to accept the Norway managerial role, Grainger issued the following statement: “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 had no intention to leave Cymru, but I have been offered an unexpected opportunity that I could not turn down and it has been extremely difficult for me to get to this point. I hope you know the decision to leave has not been taken lightly.

“I truly believe this team is ready to take the next steps and qualify. I’m confident the team can continue to build and grow from this point forward.

“Cymru will forever have a place in my heart, diolch am bopeth.”

FA Wales Chief Executive, Noel Mooney added: “I would like to place on record our sincere gratitude for what Gemma has achieved during her time as Cymru National Team Manager.

“She worked incredibly hard with all of us at the FAW to provide the best possible environment for the Women’s National Team to be successful.

“We are really happy that we have progressed well under Gemma and now, we enter a period of recruitment for a new manager that will give us the best opportunity to qualify for UEFA EURO 2025 and the 2027 FIFA World Cup.”