Kieran McKenna's coaching journey is one of the most compelling stories in English football right now. The former Manchester United assistant has transformed Ipswich Town from a League One side into a Premier League contender, but his future at Portman Road is suddenly uncertain.
McKenna's rise has been nothing short of remarkable. After joining Manchester United in 2016 as the under-18 manager, he quickly impressed and was promoted to the senior coaching staff in 2018 under Jose Mourinho. He remained a key figure during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's tenure, working alongside current United coach Michael Carrick. In 2021, he took the bold step of becoming Ipswich Town manager—a decision that has paid off spectacularly.
The 39-year-old Northern Irishman led Ipswich to back-to-back promotions, securing Premier League football for the 2024-25 season. Though the Tractor Boys initially struggled at the top level, they showed their resilience with a memorable 1-1 draw against Manchester United at Portman Road. This season, they finished second in the Championship, earning automatic promotion once again.
However, according to The Sun, McKenna may not be in charge when Ipswich returns to the Premier League. The report suggests he "looks increasingly likely to leave Ipswich Town this summer if he is offered another Premier League job." While the club desperately wants to keep the man who has delivered three promotions in four seasons, they are already preparing a shortlist of potential replacements.
Interest in McKenna is heating up. Crystal Palace is reportedly eyeing him as a backup if they can't secure Andoni Iraola. Fulham could also be a destination if they part ways with Marco Silva. Chelsea, Manchester United, Crystal Palace, and Brighton & Hove Albion have all shown interest in the past, speaking to him two summers ago. For now, though, it looks like his former club Manchester United won't come calling again.
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes are on McKenna. Will he stay and continue his remarkable work at Ipswich, or will he take the next step in his career? One thing is certain: wherever he goes, success seems to follow.