Next Mayo Manager Odds: Who Will Replace Kevin McStay

Mayo are on the lookout for a new senior football manager following the county board’s decision to ‘relieve Kevin McStay and his management team from their roles with the Mayo Senior Football Team with immediate effect.’

Mayo GAA is box office, whether it is on or off the pitch, the county’s senior football team and drama are never too far apart. In line with this, the search for the next Mayo Manager is the top story in gaelic football circles heading into this All-Ireland Football quarter-final weekend.

McStay’s departure brings an end to a three-season spell that began with promise but ultimately didn’t deliver in the Championship. With several familiar names in the mix, the betting market is already heating up.

Next Mayo Manager Betting Odds

*Odds are accurate at the time of publishing but subject to change.

Reflecting On McStay’s Tenure

Kevin McStay took charge of Mayo in August 2022 following James Horan’s departure earlier that summer. He made an immediate impact by winning the National Football League Division 1 title in his first season at the helm, but Championship success was elusive.

In 2023, Mayo suffered a resounding defeat at the hands of Dublin, to the tune of 12 points, in an All-Ireland quarter-final. The following year, they exited at the preliminary quarter-final stage after a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to Derry at home in MacHale Park.

In 2025, McStay guided Mayo to another NFL Division 1 final, only to be comprehensively beaten by Kerry. Later in the season, Mayo were knocked out of the All-Ireland group stage following losses to Cavan and Donegal. During the campaign, McStay stepped back from his duties as manager due to health reasons.

His legacy will be one of consistency in the league and steadying the ship after inheriting a team that had come to the end of its run. While he didn’t deliver a Connacht title or reach an All-Ireland semi-final, McStay has undoubtedly left the county in a stronger position than he found it.

Next Mayo Manager Favourites

James Horan (2/1)

A two-time former Mayo manager, Horan remains a frontrunner whenever the job becomes available. He helped modernise Mayo football during his spells in charge, leading them to two All-Ireland finals in each tenure.

While some might argue that his time has passed, others believe his familiarity with the county setup and his proven track record could make him the safest pair of hands available.

Andy Moran (2/1)

After stepping away from the Leitrim setup in 2024, Moran joined the Monaghan senior management team. A Mayo GAA icon and 2017 Footballer of the Year, Moran commands immense respect both locally and nationally.

While Sam Maguire success eluded him as a player, many in the county believe he’s destined to bring it home as a manager. His standing with the current squad would ensure immediate buy-in, and he’s seen as a natural leader with long-term potential.

*Odds are accurate at the time of publishing but subject to change.

Austin O'Malley (2/1)

O’Malley’s stock has risen significantly in 2025 after guiding Dublin club Cuala to an All-Ireland Club Football title earlier this year. That success, combined with his Mayo roots, makes him a compelling candidate.

He’s viewed as a progressive coach with a sharp tactical mind, and there’s a sense he could bring a fresh voice to the setup while still understanding the nuances of football in the county.

*Odds are accurate at the time of publishing but subject to change.

Ray Dempsey (6/1)

Dempsey was strongly considered the last time the job was available, and could be in the mix again. He brings deep ties to Mayo football and a reputation for being a straight-talking, passionate leader.

His candidacy might depend on how far the County Board wants to cast the net this time around.

Oisin McConville (12/1)

McConville has done impressive work with Wicklow, culminating in a Tailteann Cup semi-final appearance this season. Ambitious and sharp-witted, the former Armagh star would surely jump at the chance to manage Mayo.

However, some may question whether success with a developing county like Wicklow translates to competing at the very top end of the Championship.

*Odds are accurate at the time of publishing but subject to change.

Davy Burke (12/1)

Burke remains a well-respected name in intercounty circles after spells with Roscommon and Kildare. He’s known for his meticulous preparation and obsessive approach to management.

While not a frontrunner, he’s the kind of figure who could be considered if the top candidates fall through.

Kieran Donaghy (14/1)

An interesting outside bet. While he has never held a senior intercounty managerial role, Donaghy has been involved in backroom teams and is highly rated in coaching circles.

His charisma, footballing IQ, and presence could make him a left-field yet inspired appointment – if Mayo are willing to take a chance, that is.

Tony McEntee (14/1)

McEntee has quietly built a solid managerial CV and is no stranger to Mayo, having previously worked with the county during Stephen Rochford’s tenure. Most recently, he was the manager of Sligo.

Though the Armagh man is not a headline name, his experience and organisational ability make him a steady candidate.

Mickey Harte (14/1)

A long shot in every sense. While Harte brings undeniable pedigree as a multiple All-Ireland winner with Tyrone and has done solid work more recently with Louth and Derry, there would likely be serious pushback from Mayo fans and possibly even players.

His football philosophy and public perception in Mayo would make this a very difficult sell.

Karl Lacey (20/1)

A Donegal legend, Lacey has been involved in player development roles in recent years. Most recently, Lacey has had success as manager of Down outfit Kilcoo, leading the club to a senior county title.

He’s seen more as a future intercounty manager than an immediate solution, but the experience and intelligence are clearly there.

Stephen Rochford (25/1)

Very unlikely. Rochford was part of McStay’s management team and took charge of Mayo’s final championship matches this year, which ended in disappointment.

While he led Mayo to two All-Ireland finals during his time in charge (2016–2018), a return at this stage would likely be seen as a backward step.

Eamonn Fitzmaurice (25/1)

The former Kerry boss is respected for his tactical acumen and media work, but he hasn’t shown much interest in returning to the sideline. Fitzmaurice would be a curious fit culturally, but stranger things have happened.

Jim Gavin (25/1)

The architect of the Dublin dynasty and one of the greatest managers the game has ever seen. Gavin's name alone would create headlines, and his appointment would be a seismic event in Gaelic football.

That said, there’s little indication he’s interested in returning to management. However, if anything could tempt him back to the sidelines, it would surely be the romantic idea of leading Mayo to their long-awaited All-Ireland. It could be a narrative worth keeping an eye on.

*Odds are accurate at the time of publishing but subject to change.

Ger Brennan (25/1)

Brennan is one of the hottest names in management circles following what he has done with Louth in his two seasons with the Wee County.

Having led Louth to a Leinster title, perhaps he might be interested in the challenge of ending another drought in the form of Mayo’s long wait for an All-Ireland.

*Odds are accurate at the time of publishing but subject to change.

What’s the Timeline For The Mayo Manager Search

When James Horan stepped down on June 27th, 2022, it took just under two months for McStay to be appointed on August 22nd. If history repeats itself, Mayo could take a similar approach and name their next manager by late summer. That said, if the County Board already has someone lined up, the announcement could come much sooner.

*Prices are subject to fluctuation.

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