# Carla Ward Focuses on World Cup

> Republic of Ireland manager Carla Ward says reaching the Women's World Cup is her only focus amid contract speculation.
- Title: Carla Ward Focuses on World Cup · BBC Sport | Shortify
- Summary: Republic of Ireland manager Carla Ward says reaching the Women's World Cup is her only focus amid contract speculation. Republic of Ireland manager Carla…
- Keywords: carla ward, republic of ireland, women's world cup, aston villa, women's super league, football, sports, Carla, Ward, Focuses, World, Cup
- Source: BBC Sport — https://bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cqvg07v9xrz4o
- Published: 2026-10-07T08:57:21.626+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: carla ward, republic of ireland, women's world cup, aston villa, women's super league, football, sports
## Carla Ward's World Cup Focus
Republic of Ireland manager Carla Ward says reaching the Women's World Cup is her primary ambition amid contract speculation.

> Nothing is tempting when I'm in this job, you know I love this job and I love working here
## Republic's World Cup Play-Off
The Republic have a chance to book a spot at next summer's World Cup by facing Kazakhstan before a two-legged final against Belgium or Poland.
## Ward's Contract Timeline
Ward's contract is due to expire in 2027, but she insists leading the Republic to the World Cup is her top priority.
## Ward's Four-Game Focus
Ward says she will focus entirely on the next four games to reach the World Cup, with no distractions.

> I don't think anything can take my attention away from these next four games so it's not a conversation and it's not anything I would entertain
## Republic's World Cup History
The Republic qualified for the Women's World Cup in 2023 but were unable to progress from the group stage.
## Key Players Out for Play-Off
Katie McCabe and Marissa Sheva are suspended, while Denise O'Sullivan and Tara O'Hanlon are unavailable for the Kazakhstan play-off.
## Key takeaway

Republic of Ireland manager Carla Ward prioritizes reaching the Women's World Cup over potential move to Aston Villa.