Munster find themselves in a difficult spot. Having previously thought they had their coaching future sorted after Johann van Graan signed a new deal, the South African has now instead opted to move to Bath at the end of the season.
This leaves Munster on the search for a new head coach, with a number of possible names mentioned. Ronan O'Gara has said he will not be leaving La Rochelle, leading some to suggest Paul O'Connell as a possible alternative.
The 42-year old is still in the early stages of his coaching career, although he has massively impressed since becoming part of Andy Farrell's Ireland setup last year. Many felt this made him an obvious candidate for the Munster job, although the man himself doesn't see it that way.
Speaking on The 2 Johnnies Podcast, O'Connell said he is nowhere near qualified enough to take on the Munster head coaching role just yet. In fact, he hinted that he would be hesitant at taking the job further down the line.
Will Paul O'Connell manage #Munster?
Hear the full interview with Rugby legend Paul O'Connell on podcast ep.203 available exclusively on Spotify now! pic.twitter.com/tnSTWjdBZa— The 2 Johnnies (@the2johnnies) January 6, 2022
Well look, I won't be doing it. I wouldn't be qualified to do it.
I was saying the other day, it's like a guy who is good at pulling pints being asked to run the bar! They're two different things.
I don't know who will end up doing...
I don't know (if he will end up in the job some day). Munster is a very special thing to me, I'd have to feel very right and very qualified to go and do it.
I have the most amazing memories with Munster and I'd hate to ever hurt them by getting involved and not doing a good job of it.
O'Connell may not see the Munster job as a real option at the moment, but many of the province's supporters would certainly love to see him back with the team in the future.
This job may have just come a bit too soon for him.
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