Kieran McKenna has stepped down as Ipswich Town manager after four and a half years at the helm, during which he guided the Suffolk club from the depths of League One to the brink of the Premier League. The 40-year-old will take a break from management and is not believed to have another job lined up, despite links to the vacant position at Fulham.
A Remarkable Journey
McKenna took over at Portman Road in December 2021 when Ipswich were struggling in League One. By May 2024, they were a top-flight club after securing back-to-back promotions in spectacular fashion. His achievements made him one of the most sought-after managers in Europe, leading to a new contract with Ipswich, though he was unable to keep them in the Premier League during the 2024-25 season.
He departs on a high after Ipswich finished second in the Championship last season, clinching promotion with a final-day victory over QPR. McKenna is understood to have made his decision early last week after a post-season break, and Ipswich will be financially protected if he takes a role elsewhere in the coming months.
Emotional Farewell
“When you have the connection that we have built at this club there is never a good time to say goodbye,” McKenna said. “However, having achieved a second promotion to the Premier League last season, with another memorable final day in our stadium, and after reflection over the last couple of weeks, I feel this is the right time for me to step aside. I do so with great pride at the incredible progress we have made and with huge hope and optimism for the future of this club.”
He added: “After giving so much to the role over the previous five seasons, I now look forward to taking a break from management and dedicating some time to my family, who have been with me every step of my career so far.”
Club Reaction
McKenna joined Ipswich from a first-team coaching role at Manchester United, where his potential quickly became evident. United, Chelsea, and Brighton all expressed interest in appointing him to their vacant managerial positions in 2024.
Ipswich chair Mark Ashton said: “The mark he, his staff and his players have made on Ipswich Town and its community will live for ever. It has captured a generation. Like so many, I am of course gutted that our journey together has come to an end, but I understand and respect the decision he has made after five incredibly intense years.”
Ipswich are not expected to appoint a replacement immediately, but the role is considered attractive. The club is well backed by a consortium of US-based investors and will open a new training ground before next season.
