Hugo Keenan has welcomed Noel McNamara’s appointment as Leinster head coach, describing the move as an “exciting” opportunity for the province. McNamara is set to replace Leo Cullen next year after serving as attack coach at Bordeaux Begles.
McNamara helped Bordeaux defeat Leinster 41-19 in the Investec Champions Cup final in May, securing the French side’s second consecutive European title. Keenan said Leinster had seen the impact of his attacking work first-hand and was looking forward to working with him.
The Ireland full-back has known McNamara since his time at UCD and later worked with him at Leinster, where McNamara was academy manager and Leinster A head coach. He also coached Ireland’s Under-20s to Grand Slam success in 2019. After five years in Dublin, McNamara joined the Sharks in South Africa in 2021 before moving to Bordeaux in 2023.
Keenan said McNamara’s experience outside Leinster could give him a fresh perspective. He also pointed to the coach’s man-management and ability to command a room as qualities that could help him make the transition from attack coach to head coach.
McNamara has said the Leinster role is one of the most prestigious in world rugby. Keenan believes his familiarity with the province will help him develop the team while maintaining its identity and established style of play.
Cullen leaves after 12 years in charge. During that period, Leinster won six league titles and the Champions Cup in 2018. The province has since lost five Champions Cup finals, including four in the past five years. Keenan described the task of succeeding Cullen as filling “big boots.”
Sources: BBC Sport.