Manchester United lose manager option as highly-rated coach signs new deal
Man Utd are still weighing up what to do next after Erik ten Hag's side won the FA Cup.
Manchester United have lost one option to replace Erik ten Hag as manager after Kieran McKenna signed a new deal with Ipswich Town.
The 38-year-old had been considered for roles at both United and Chelsea after he guided Ipswich back to the Premier League following a 22-year absence.
Ipswich were a mid-table side in League One when he left his role as an assistant first-team coach at Old Trafford in December 2021, but his first full season at the club ended with a second-placed finish and automatic promotion to the Championship. McKenna's stock rose even higher this season as he guided the Tractor Boys to a second successive promotion with a second-place finish in the Championship and a return to the top-flight.
ManchesterWorld understand McKenna was a genuine contender for the United managerial role if it became available, though there were some doubts about his inexperience given the enormity of the task.
United are yet to make a decision on the future of Ten Hag as they conduct their post-season review this week. The Ineos Group have been keeping tabs on a number of candidates should they decide change is necessary, though there is still a chance he could remain in his role.
Ten Hag oversaw arguably the best performance and result of his two-year United tenure with victory in the FA Cup final, a display that highlighted the untapped potential of his side. However, Ineos insist they will judge the Dutchman over his entire time at the club and will not be swept up by the revisionism of their uplifting Wembley win.
Speaking after he signed his deal, 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.
“Preparation and planning for the challenge ahead has been ongoing since we won promotion at the beginning of May, with plenty of work still to do before the start of the new season at what is such an exciting time for everyone at the Club.
“I am so happy to have committed my future to taking the next step with Ipswich Town and am really excited for what's ahead as we continue this journey together.”