Seamus Coleman focused on international friendlies before deciding on future

Republic of Ireland veteran Seamus Coleman has adopted a wait-and-see approach regarding his future after confirming his participation in the upcoming friendly matches against Qatar and Canada. The 37-year-old recently concluded a 17-year stint with Everton, leaving the club upon the expiration of his contract after a record 374 appearances.

Despite his departure from the Premier League, Coleman is not rushing into decisions about his next steps. The veteran defender remains available for national duty and has expressed a desire to add to his 79 international caps. Once the summer window concludes, he intends to weigh his options, which include seeking a new club, retiring, or potentially exploring a coaching career.

I have always said in my career, family first, football second, they are the only two things going for me, family and football. So family will absolutely come into it, but I honestly haven't thought too much about a club or what is next. I am looking forward to these two Ireland games and am looking forward to going on holiday, but in football, you never know what will happen. Seamus Coleman

A significant influence on his thinking has been a conversation with Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson. The prospect of being part of the Euro 2028 tournament, which will be hosted on home soil, has made the decision process more complex. Coleman noted that he feels physically good, citing that his injury history might have left him with fewer miles on the clock compared to other players his age, keeping the door open for his continued participation.