Kieran McKenna Deals Manchester United Reported Blow with Decision on Ipswich Town Future

Kieran McKenna Deals Manchester United Reported Blow with Decision on Ipswich Town Future

Rene Otinga
updated at May 30, 2024 at 7:02 AM
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  • Manchester United were reportedly looking at the possibility of signing on Kieran McKenna
  • The 38-year-old Ipswich Town manager has seen his credentials rise after recent seasons
  • United, Brighton and Hove Albion, and Chelsea have all expressed an interest in McKenna

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Kieran McKenna could deal Manchester United a managerial setback, as reports claim the 38-year-old is set to commit to Ipswich Town.

McKenna has emerged as one of the hottest prospects in the managerial realm after guiding Ipswich to back-to-back promotions, which included the return of Premier League football to Portman Road for the first time in 22 years.

Kieran McKenna, Ipswich Town, Premier League, Manchester United, Erik ten Hag
Kieran McKenna during a Championship match on April 30, 2024. He is one of the hottest managerial prospects in football. Photo: Photo by Kevin Hodgson.
Source: Getty Images

The 38-year-old was Brighton and Hove Albion’s first choice to replace Roberto de Zerbi.

He was also linked with the Chelsea job, but according to Sky Sports, he was told on the phone that the Blues were looking for Mauricio Pochettino’s replacement elsewhere.

McKenna set to end speculation over his future

With the rising uncertainty over his future, The Athletic reports that McKenna is set to commit to Ipswich town, in what would be a huge boost for the newly-promoted club.

His current deal with the Tractor Boys, signed in 2021 when he was just 35, was set to run for three-and-a-half years.

After his impressive performances and back-to-back promotions, the England-born manager is set to sign a lengthier deal.

What next for Manchester United and Erik ten Hag?

McKenna’s impending commitment to Ipswich Town gives Manchester United chiefs a lot to think about, especially after reports emerged that the club was ready to part ways with Erik ten Hag.

The 54-year-old won the FA Cup with United on Sunday, May 26, for a second trophy with the club in as many seasons.

Victory in England’s oldest competition could likely afford the Dutchman some more time at Old Trafford, according to Manchester Evening News.

The publication reports that United will only sack ten Hag when it is certain there is a better and more viable managerial option available.

A final decision has yet to be made, but the Dutchman should learn of his fate in the coming days after the club completes the season review currently being carried out.

How Chelsea can still qualify for Europa League

Sports Brief also reported on the extraordinary scenario that could see Chelsea qualify for the Europa League.

The Blues saw their chance to play in Europe's second-stream competition vanish after United won the FA Cup.

However, they could miss out on the Europa League because of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s ties to the Ligue 1 club, Nice.

Authors
Rene Otinga photo
Rene Otinga
Rene Otinga is a sports journalist with over eight years of working experience in digital media. Rene's experience includes working as a Copywriter at X News Kenya and TUKO.co.ke.
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Erik Ten Haag