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Kieran McKenna signs new four-year contract at Ipswich in blow to Man Utd

30 May 2024 , 15:09
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The future of Erik ten Hag remains undecided at Old Trafford
The future of Erik ten Hag remains undecided at Old Trafford

KIERAN MCKENNA has signed a new four-year deal to keep him at Ipswich Town.

The Tractor Boys boss will stay with the club until 2028 after receiving interest from the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea in recent weeks.

Kieran McKenna has signed a new contract with Ipswich Town eiqruidtirprw
Kieran McKenna has signed a new contract with Ipswich TownCredit: Ipswich town
McKenna has guided Ipswich to back-to-back promotions
McKenna has guided Ipswich to back-to-back promotionsCredit: PA

McKenna, who has guided Ipswich to back-to-back promotions, had been eyed as a possible replacement for Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford.

But his new deal puts an end to speculation that he could fill the Dutchman's void in the Manchester dugout should Ten Hag be sacked.

Speaking after putting pen to paper on his new deal, McKenna told the club's official website: "I am extremely proud to have signed a new contract with the Club.   

Marcus Rashford makes tongue-in-cheek joke after being dropped by Erik ten HagMarcus Rashford makes tongue-in-cheek joke after being dropped by Erik ten Hag

"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.” 

SunSport understands that McKenna's new deal will see him QUADRUPLE his salary - earning him a whopping £5million per year.

That mega pay bump will see him become one of the Premier League's top earners, sitting on the same salary as Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou.

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While only Pep Guardiola, Mikel Arteta, Unai Emery, Ten Hag and Arne Slot are expected to earn more than the 38-year-old.

McKenna previously worked as an assistant at Man Utd before leaving in 2021 to take the Ipswich job.

Since arriving at Portman Road he has guided the club from League One to the Premier League and is about to embark on The Blues' first season in the top flight since the 2001/2002 campaign.

News of a contract will be music to the ears of Ipswich fans who will be hoping McKenna can continue working his magic to keep the club in the Premier League.

Erik ten Hag faces fresh Hannibal Mejbri dilemma as transfer interest emergesErik ten Hag faces fresh Hannibal Mejbri dilemma as transfer interest emerges

While the deal will be seen as a blow at Man Utd.

United execs had reportedly been keen on convincing McKenna to come in as the new boss with current gaffer Ten Hag's future in doubt.

Despite Ten Hag guiding the Red Devils to FA Cup glory - a second trophy in as many seasons at the club - the 54-year-old's time at the Theatre of Dreams is still in jeopardy.

Ineos chief and new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is yet to make a decision on if the club will sack Ten Hag or not.

Man Utd are reportedly carrying out an end of season review to determine Ten Hag's future.

The Manchester giants had their worst ever Premier League campaign this season finishing in eighth place, while they also finished rock bottom of their Champions League group.

With McKenna now off the table as an option to replace Ten Hag there is even more doubt over what may happen at United.

Other managers linked with the high-profile role include Brentford boss Thomas Frank, England gaffer Gareth Southgate and former Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Erik ten Hag's future at Man Utd is in doubt despite winning the FA Cup
Erik ten Hag's future at Man Utd is in doubt despite winning the FA CupCredit: Getty

Joshua Hall

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