Glentoran Football Club is delighted to announce that First Team Manager Declan Devine has signed a new two-and-a-half-year contract, committing his future to the BetMcLean Oval until 2027.
Since taking charge in March 2024 – initially on an interim basis before being confirmed as permanent in April – Devine has undertaken a significant overhaul of the first team squad while beginning the process of reshaping the club’s football operations.
The summer of 2024 saw 18 players depart Glentoran and 12 signings brought in as Devine began implementing his vision for the club built on high-intensity football, teamwork, discipline and a commitment to representing the Glentoran fanbase.
While the squad remains a work in progress, Devine’s first full season in charge has already delivered moments of real promise. The Glens have secured a place in the ToalsBet.com County Antrim Shield Final and achieved a hat-trick of victories over their ‘Big Two’ rivals Linfield.
As a former Glentoran goalkeeper and a key figure in the team’s 1996 Irish Cup success, Devine’s connection to the club drives his determination to build on its proud history and deliver further silverware to the BetMcLean Oval.
Declan Devine said: “It’s a privilege to commit my future to Glentoran Football Club-a club that holds a special place in my heart, both personally and professionally. Having experienced the passion of this historic club as both a player and now as manager, my ambition is to restore Glentoran to its rightful place, competing for league titles and bringing silverware back to the BetMcLean Oval.
“Over the past eight months, we’ve made significant progress, from reshaping the squad to modernising our football operations. We are building a young, talented team with enormous potential, and while it will take time for them to fully realise their capabilities, we are laying the foundations for long-term success.
“I’m fully committed to building something truly special here at Glentoran. My vision is to create a team that plays a distinctive style of football, consistently competes for silverware, and brings pride and joy to everyone associated with the club.
“I want to thank Ali Pour and the Board for their belief in my vision, and most importantly, our incredible fans, whose support has been outstanding since my arrival. Together, I’m confident we can achieve great things worthy of this club’s proud history.”
Ali Pour, owner of Glentoran Football Club, said: “Declan has been a breath of fresh air since arriving at Glentoran. Every meeting with him has impressed me; his commitment is outstanding. He lives and breathes Glentoran, and you can see that passion reflected in everything he does.
“His leadership, energy, and ambitious vision have set us on a clear path toward success. From overhauling the squad to implementing modern footballing practices, Declan’s work has been vital in creating a professional and competitive environment.
“This contract reflects our commitment to his long-term vision. He is building a culture of excellence and a team that represents the values of Glentoran, both on and off the pitch. I have no doubt that with Declan at the helm, we will continue to grow, compete, and make our supporters proud.”
The club’s commitment to the manager’s vision has been further reinforced with contract extensions for key players James Singleton and James Douglas, as well as the additions of Shane McEleney and Ciarán Coll from Derry City to strengthen the team’s defensive options.
Tony Webster, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Glentoran Football Club, added: “Declan’s impact has been outstanding. His passion for Glentoran, coupled with his clear vision and relentless work ethic, is driving real change both on and off the pitch. His leadership has been instrumental in setting a new standard of professionalism at the club.
“As a hands-on coach, Declan ensures his tactical approach is effectively communicated to the players while utilising data-driven performance analysis, advanced strength and conditioning, and tailored nutrition strategies to maximise each player’s potential.
“This new contract reflects the Board’s full confidence in Declan’s leadership and the significant progress we are achieving under his guidance. Our priority is to provide him with the resources and infrastructure needed to deliver success. Together, we are building something truly special at Glentoran, and I am confident the future holds exciting opportunities for the club and its incredible supporters.”
Declan Devine made 38 appearances as a goalkeeper for Glentoran over two seasons, with his final appearance coming in the 1996 Irish Cup Final, where the Glens defeated Glenavon to lift the trophy.
Colin Jess, Chairman of Glentoran Football Club, concluded: “Declan’s connection to Glentoran is rooted in the club’s proud history. As a former player who played a key role in the iconic 1996 Irish Cup Final victory, he understands the passion, pride, and responsibility that come with representing this club.
“His leadership has been instrumental in galvanising everyone connected to Glentoran – players, staff, and supporters alike – creating a renewed sense of unity and purpose throughout the club. Declan’s ability to inspire and bring out the best in those around him has been a driving force behind the progress we are making, both on and off the pitch.
“His vision balances building for the present with investing in the future, laying the foundations for sustained success at every level of the club. We are fortunate to have a manager who recognises the values of Glentoran and is committed to delivering success for this great cub.”