James Horan backs Donegal for All-Ireland glory in 2025

Former Mayo manager and player James Horan believes Donegal is the team to beat for the Sam Maguire in 2025.

Speaking on the Irish Examiner’s Gaelic football podcast, Horan expressed confidence in Jim McGuinness’ ability to guide the Ulster champions to All-Ireland glory. Donegal had an impressive 2024 season, securing Division 2, the Ulster title, and an All-Ireland semi-final berth.

“In 2025, I am going for Donegal to win the All-Ireland for a couple of reasons,” Horan stated.

“This is Jim McGuinness’ second year; we saw what he did last season with a lot of young players. The dynamism he brought to it. He is bringing back significant experience this year. Michael Murphy obviously. They also have Odhran McFadden-Ferry, Eoin McHugh, Eoghan McGettigan amongst others. Experience back with the youthful enthusiasm that they got last year. That mixed together with McGuinness’ drive. I think they are out in front.”

Donegal’s league campaign begins with an away clash against Kerry later this month.

Horan also commented on the new Gaelic football rules, anticipating exciting developments as teams adapt.

“I think 2025 will be brilliant. I am not saying all the rules will work, that is not it at all, but I think there will be excitement and an unknown about Gaelic football which we have not had for a long time.

"Unpredictability is brilliant. That is for who could win the All-Ireland and I think there are coaches across the country going out with a format saying this is how we will play game one, game two of the national league. By game three of the league after feedback from the players, they might have scrapped that and gone with something else.”

Coaching seminars and challenge matches are already underway to explore the implications of these new rule changes. Horan noted that the adjustment process will take time.

“No one knows,” Horan explained. “Coaches now will go out with a set way to play and how we take advantage of it, but after a round or two of the national league, senior players will feed back in and there could be changes in how a team sets up or how they play.

"The players will have the best sense of it. Coaches now haven’t played under these rules. Teams will do different things throughout the league which will be great to see.”

With the anticipation of an unpredictable and dynamic season, all eyes will be on Donegal and their journey under McGuinness’ guidance.