Kieran McKenna STAYS! Ipswich Town boss snubs shock interest from Manchester United and Chelsea to sign new contract with newly-promoted Tractor Boys

Posted Friday, May 31, 2024 by Goal.com

WHAT HAPPENED?

McKenna has committed to a new four-year contract with the Tractor Boys after guiding the team to a second-place finish in the Championship this season, bringing them back to the Premier League for the first time since 2002, having taken them from League One to the Championship the season prior.

The next step on our journey. pic.twitter.com/BylWamvtEH
— I(P)SWICH TOWN (@IpswichTown) May 30, 2024

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The 38-year-old's decision to extend his stay at Portman Road comes despite interest from Manchester United and Chelsea. The Red Devils had been eyeing him as a possible replacement for Erik ten Hag, whose future remains up in the air, while Chelsea considered him after they sacked Mauricio Pochettino, though they appear set to snap up Enzo Maresca from Championship winners Leicester instead.

WHAT MCKENNA SAID

Now contracted to the club until 2028, McKenna told the club's website: "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."

Kieran McKenna STAYS! Ipswich Town boss snubs shock interest from Manchester United and Chelsea to sign new contract with newly-promoted Tractor Boys

WHAT NEXT FOR MCKENNA?

The former Tottenham midfielder and ex-United Under 18s coach will start preparing for life in the Premier League after confirming his desire to stay at Ipswich for the foreseeable future.