Despite interest from top Premier League clubs such as Manchester United, Chelsea, and Brighton, Kieran McKenna has decided to stay at Ipswich Town. A source close to the situation has told ESPN that McKenna values the loyalty he feels towards Ipswich, the club that gave him his first managerial role back in 2021.
Moreover, McKenna believes there is “unfinished business” at Ipswich following their promotion from the Championship. This sentiment has driven his decision to extend his contract with the club as they embark on their first season back in the Premier League since 2002.
Manchester United and Chelsea have both expressed interest in the 38-year-old manager. Additionally, Brighton interviewed McKenna after parting ways with Roberto De Zerbi at the end of the season. It is evident that McKenna’s coaching abilities have caught the attention of several top clubs in the Premier League.
Compensation Costs
Sources have revealed that any club looking to appoint McKenna would have had to pay compensation of around £6 million ($7.7m). Initially, the figure was closer to £4 million but increased after Ipswich’s promotion to the Premier League. This demonstrates the value that Ipswich places on McKenna and his contributions to the team.
McKenna joined Ipswich in December 2021 and has since made a significant impact at the club. Despite not reaching the playoffs in his first season, back-to-back second-place finishes have seen his stock rise in England. His coaching career began at Tottenham Hotspur as the under-18s coach before moving to Manchester United in a similar role.
McKenna was later promoted to Jose Mourinho’s backroom staff with the first team at United. He continued in this role under Ole Gunnar Solskjær until late 2021. McKenna’s experience working with top managers and players has undoubtedly shaped his managerial style and contributed to his success at Ipswich Town.
Kieran McKenna’s decision to stay at Ipswich Town despite interest from top Premier League clubs showcases his loyalty and dedication to the team. His belief in “unfinished business” and the positive trajectory of the club have influenced his choice to extend his contract. As he continues to make strides in his managerial career, McKenna’s reputation in English football is only set to grow.
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