The proposed centre will feature "world-class pitches and cutting-edge training facilities", according to the IFA. O'Neill, who grew up in Ballymena, believes that having the facility at Galgorm will have a positive impact on the town. "It's an elite facility that shows the intent from the association as they continue to develop players," he told BBC Sport NI's Stephen Watson.
The association has reiterated their desire to proceed with the proposal, despite objections from local residents. O'Neill hopes to "mitigate concerns where possible" and is "certainly hopeful" that the plans will progress. The centre is intended to benefit not just the senior team, but also the underage teams and the women's team.
Conor Bradley, who sustained a knee injury in January, is expected to return to the Northern Ireland team in March 2027. The Northern Ireland team faces Georgia, Hungary, and Ukraine in the Nations League campaign, with six games scheduled for September, October, and November.