Kieran McKenna has stepped down as Ipswich Town manager after four and a half years, leaving the club on the cusp of their Premier League return next season. The 40-year-old Northern Irishman, who took charge in December 2021 when Ipswich were languishing in League One, secured back-to-back promotions to propel the Suffolk club back to the top flight for the first time in over two decades.
McKenna's decision to depart comes after a remarkable turnaround at Portman Road. Under his guidance, Ipswich won consecutive promotions in dazzling style, finishing second in the Championship last season after a final-day victory over Queens Park Rangers. Despite being unable to keep the club in the Premier League during the 2024-25 campaign, McKenna leaves with his reputation enhanced and the club in a stronger position than when he arrived.
The former Manchester United first-team coach had been linked with the vacant managerial position at Fulham, but sources indicate he has no immediate job lined up. Instead, McKenna is taking a break from management to recharge and spend more time with his family. He is understood to have reached 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.
McKenna's statement on departure
In a statement, McKenna expressed pride in the club's progress and gratitude for the support he received. "When you have the connection that we have built at this club, there is never a good time to say goodbye," he 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 chairman's reaction
Ipswich chairman Mark Ashton admitted he was "gutted" by McKenna's decision but understood and respected it. "The mark he, his staff and his players have made on Ipswich Town and its community will live forever. It has captured a generation," Ashton said. "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."
McKenna's tenure at Ipswich saw the club rise from the depths of League One to the Premier League, making him one of the most sought-after managers in Europe. At various points, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Brighton had expressed interest in appointing him. However, McKenna chose to stay at Ipswich, signing a new contract after their promotion to the Premier League, before ultimately deciding to step away.
What's next for Ipswich?
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. The search for a new manager will begin in due course, with several candidates likely to express interest in taking over a club with Premier League ambitions and solid financial backing.
McKenna's departure marks the end of an era at Portman Road, but his legacy of "incredible progress" will not be forgotten by Ipswich fans. The club now looks to the future with optimism, building on the foundations laid by one of the most successful managers in their recent history.
