Just a few months into his second tenure as manager, Jim McGuinness has already transformed the Donegal team.
It was not that long ago that the county looked to be at their lowest ebb in quite some time, being relegated from Division 1 and struggling to perform in the championship. It was hoped that the return of their most recent All-Ireland winning coach could reverse that trend, although it has been incredible to see just how quickly he has improved their fortunes.
Their Ulster final victory over Armagh yesterday came via the finest of margins, winning the provincial title via a penalty shootout. However, the manner in which Donegal produced a number of comebacks over the course of the game pointed towards the spirit of this group under McGuinness.
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James Horan names big Jim McGuinness change since Donegal return
Jim McGuinness revolutionised the sport during his first spell in charge of Donegal, introducing a tactical philosophy that would be replicated countless times at both club and inter-county level over the years that followed.
While his approach has not been quite as revolutionary this time around, he has made some subtle changes to the way he is handling his players.
Writing in the Irish Examiner, James Horan said that McGuinness is taking a more nuanced approach with his squad, one that accounts for the more diverse needs of players in the current game. This has resulted in a less hardline approach than he employed during his previous spell in charge of Donegal.
As the sport has transformed, so it appears has Jim. Recognising the shifts, Jim appears to have adapted his approach, emphasising a more inclusive and collaborative approach.
It’s early days, but recent interviews show a discernible softening in Jim’s messaging. The language and tone he employs reveal a ore empathetic leader who places passion for the game and enjoyment of the wider Donegal people at the heart of what this team do.
His intent and ability to harness the collective of a group and steer them on a winning path is still as razor-sharp as ever, maybe even better than before.
Whatever approach Jim McGuinness is taking with this Donegal team, it is certainly doing the trick.
The county already have Division 2 and Ulster titles under their belt this season, with the All-Ireland series still to come. Considering the improvements they have made in recent times, they could yet have a big say on the destination of the Sam Maguire this summer.
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