His name cropped up late in the race and after he spoke to a former player of his and Irish international Liam Brady he felt the job was right for him. Brady was asked by Trapattoni to be part of his team and is expected to work in helping bring Irish football back to challenging for qualification to major tournaments.
Trapattoni told RTE sport
'I'm interested in the Irish job because it will give me more time with my family,' he said. Yesterday my solicitor came to an agreement with the FAI, so I have accepted.'
Johnny Giles seemed excited about the appointment when he told RTE sport
"You always hope you get someone like that,' 'At the start of the process Trapattoni didn't seem to be in the frame at all, but I think it's great he's come in late and all's well that ends well.
"' An experienced man and he's been a great manager over the years, and hopefully he'll be a great manager for us now.'