Online Reporter
KIERAN MCKENNA has quit Ipswich just one month after leading them back to the Premier League.
The young boss spent almost five years at Portman Road, gaining promotion three times.
A club statement says: “Kieran McKenna will step down as Ipswich Town Manager after five seasons at the club.“Kieran has made the decision to step away from football management and dedicate time to his family, having been at the forefront of one of the most successful eras in the club’s history.”
McKenna, 40, joined the club in his first senior head coach role in December 2021 and led the side up from League One to the Championship 18 months later.The Tractor Boys then made the leap up to the Prem before being relegated at the first attempt. In May he took them back to the top flight as Championship runners up but has been linked with a host of other jobs.
Northern Irishman McKenna has previously been touted as a potential Chelsea and Manchester United gaffer, making shortlists for high-profile roles.He was more recently named as a potential replacement at Fulham for the outgoing Marco Silva, who is heading to Benfica.
McKenna is said to be taking a break from football, though, after more than 200 games in charge at Ipswich.
He said his own goodbye, adding: “It is with a mixture of gratitude, pride, sadness and contentment that I have decided to step down from the honour of managing this historic football club.
“When you have the connection that we have built at this club there is never a good time to say goodbye.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 the club.
“To manage this club has been an absolute privilege. Over the last five seasons we have been on an incredible journey that has brought so many of the best experiences in my professional and personal life. “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.
“There are so many people I would like to thank who have played their part in this journey.
“Firstly, to Mark Ashton and the Board for giving me the opportunity, at 35 years old, to manage such a massive football club, and for the unwavering support and trust they have shown ever since.
“To my coaching staff and all the wonderful staff at Portman Road and our Playford Road training centre, who work tirelessly to progress the club in every way. — Sun
