Ipswich Town Boss Addresses Exit Links
Ipswich Town Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna has refused to be dragged into rumors of a transfer away from Portman Road as Premier League teams surround.
The 38-year-old has done marvels since taking up the post in 2021. The former Manchester United coach lead the Tractor Boys to promotion in his first full season in command after joining the club midway through the campaign, when they were in mid-table.
Although it was impressive enough, McKenna followed it up with similar success in the Championship, securing the club’s place in the Premier League for the first time since 2002. His spectacular ascent has put him on the attention of a number of top-tier organizations.
In recent weeks, there has been persistent speculation that he may return to Old Trafford. Current manager Erik ten Hag is expected to leave after Saturday’s FA Cup final against Manchester City, with McKenna being regarded one of the frontrunners to succeed the Dutchman.
Brighton & Hove Albion are also thought to be interested, after the announcement late last week that Roberto de Zerbi was to stand down. Following Mauricio Pochettino’s surprising resignation yesterday, McKenna might join Chelsea, although the Blues are also said to be interested in him.
The ex-Tottenham Hotspur teenager added LMA Manager of the Year to his previous Championship Manager of the Season award earlier this week, when he addressed the rumors. Speaking with Sky Sports, he stated:
“Look, the club has had a fantastic season and has a bright future ahead.
“We have accomplished so much. It has been a fantastic two years. When you achieve that kind of success, there is always conjecture and the like, which we see every summer. But I know how much everyone is looking forward to the season; the club is on the right track, and everyone is excited about what lies ahead.
“I understand that what we have accomplished is unusual, therefore there will always be conjecture. However, that is not my primary concern. Tonight (LMA awards) is about what we’ve accomplished over the previous several seasons.
“It’s been a great couple of years, and tonight is about celebrating that. I know everyone is excited for next season, and I believe the club will be in a great position heading into it.”
McKenna is now under contract until 2027, with Ipswich rumored to be interested in increasing his current agreement.
