Kieran McKenna has committed his future to Ipswich Town by signing a new four-year contract, following his successful stint in securing back-to-back promotions. The 38-year-old coach has propelled Ipswich into the Premier League for the first time in 22 years, amid interest from Manchester United, Chelsea, and Brighton.
McKenna’s decision to stay at Portman Road comes as a major boost for the newly promoted club. His leadership has been pivotal, guiding Ipswich from League One to the Championship, and then to the Premier League in successive seasons. CEO Mark Ashton lauded the contract extension as the best signing the club will make this summer.
Expressing his pride, McKenna said, “I am extremely proud to have signed a new contract with the club. We have enjoyed incredible success together over the last two seasons, and I’m excited to have the opportunity and responsibility of leading this fantastic club into its first season in the Premier League in 22 years.” He emphasized that preparation and planning for the upcoming Premier League campaign have been ongoing since their promotion.
Sky Sports News revealed that McKenna was a candidate for the vacant managerial position at Brighton and was also linked with Manchester United and Chelsea. Despite the lucrative prospects, McKenna chose to continue his journey with Ipswich. His decision to stay underscores his belief in the project at Ipswich and his desire to build on their recent successes.
McKenna’s coaching staff, including assistant manager Martyn Pert, first-team coaches Charlie Turnbull and Lee Grant, and head of goalkeeping Rene Gilmartin, have also extended their contracts. This stability in the coaching team is expected to be crucial as Ipswich embarks on its Premier League adventure.
Source: Sky Sports
