Ipswich Town Receives Significant Boost with New Chelsea and Kieran McKenna Developments

According to TWTD, former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi is now the leading candidate for the position, with Leicester City’s Enzo Maresca still being considered. McKenna has reportedly attracted interest from Brighton, Manchester United, and Chelsea in recent weeks, but the chances of him taking over at Stamford Bridge seem to have lessened.

Since his arrival at Portman Road in December 2021, the 38-year-old has achieved remarkable success, leading to back-to-back promotions and preparing the Tractor Boys for their first Premier League season since 2001/02.

Latest update on Kieran McKenna’s future with Ipswich Town.

TWTD’s report indicates that following Pochettino’s departure from Chelsea last week, discussions were held with McKenna’s representatives, but Chelsea are not expected to pursue their interest further. McKenna is also being considered by Manchester United, where he previously managed the U18 side from 2016 to 2018. Representatives of McKenna reportedly met with United’s new chief executive Omar Berrada and technical director Jason Wilcox last week to discuss the possibility of him taking over from Erik ten Hag as the first-team manager. However, United’s recent FA Cup win and securing of European football have likely enhanced ten Hag’s prospects of remaining in charge beyond the summer. The Athletic has reported that United’s leadership will conduct a season review next week, including an evaluation of ten Hag’s performance, before determining future steps.

TWTD mentions that Brighton & Hove Albion are still keen on McKenna as the successor to Roberto De Zerbi, who announced his departure from the Seagulls on May 18. However, Brighton reportedly won’t wait indefinitely for McKenna and may explore other options if necessary.

Ipswich is determined to retain McKenna’s services at all costs.

TWTD has previously stated that Ipswich majority shareholder Ed Schwartz traveled to the UK to engage in discussions with CEO Mark Ashton and McKenna, aiming to retain him at Portman Road. Negotiations are expected to include the offer of an enticing extended contract. McKenna has made a significant mark on Ipswich’s history since joining in 2021, orchestrating the club’s ascent from relative obscurity in League One to newcomers in the Premier League in less than three years.

According to The Sun, Ipswich Town has already proposed a substantial new contract to McKenna, amounting to £5 million per year over the next four seasons, in an effort to retain him at Portman Road. His current contract runs until 2027, and it’s likely that both management and supporters strongly desire for the 38-year-old to remain, at least for another season, given the sense of fulfillment in seeing him solidify the club’s position in the top-flight.

While McKenna’s tenure at Ipswich may not extend much further, it appears unlikely that Chelsea will be a potential destination for him in the upcoming season.