Michael O'Neill admitted he underestimated the workload involved in managing both Blackburn Rovers and the Northern Ireland national team. Despite the grueling schedule, he successfully steered the Championship club to safety. O'Neill will now lead his side into their final match of the season against relegated Leicester on May 2.

Contractual obligations complicate any permanent move, as O'Neill is tied to the Irish Football Association until 2028. Any club seeking his full-time services must negotiate with the IFA and meet a specific release clause. He described his current tenure at the club as a successful loan period given the results achieved.

Discussions regarding his future will depend on the direction the club chooses to take. O'Neill emphasized that he must personally want the role for any deal to progress. The manager remains a contracted employee of the national team while Blackburn decides on their long-term leadership strategy for the Championship.