After garnering substantial interest from prestigious clubs like Manchester United and Chelsea, Kieran McKenna is on the brink of committing to a new extended contract with Ipswich Town, signaling his loyalty to the East Anglian outfit.

McKenna, who has impressed with his rapid ascent in the managerial realm, orchestrated Ipswich’s triumphant return to the Premier League after an extended hiatus spanning over two decades, courtesy of consecutive promotions under his stewardship.

Despite being floated as a prime contender to succeed Mauricio Pochettino at Chelsea after his departure from Tottenham Hotspur, McKenna’s managerial journey has taken a different turn. Recent developments indicate that the former Manchester United coach is no longer in contention for the managerial reins at Stamford Bridge, paving the way for Leicester City’s Enzo Maresca to take the helm at Chelsea.

With speculation surrounding Erik ten Hag’s future uncertain at Old Trafford following a successful FA Cup campaign, Manchester United had contemplated McKenna as a potential replacement. Talks have been initiated between the Red Devils and McKenna’s representatives, alongside interest from Brighton after Roberto De Zerbi’s exit. However, McKenna seems poised to quell the uncertainty surrounding his future by penning a fresh long-term deal at Ipswich, according to reports from The Athletic.

A devoted supporter of Manchester United since his youth, McKenna’s journey at the club began in 2016 as the Under-18s coach before ascending to significant roles under the tenures of Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Taking the reins at Ipswich in December 2021, McKenna is now primed to guide the club in their Premier League campaign after an 18-year hiatus.

Despite persistent rumors suggesting a potential extension of Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Old Trafford, discussions with prospective replacements like Pochettino and Thomas Frank of Brentford have been held by Manchester United officials. With the crucial season review underway, the club remains committed to deliberating Ten Hag’s future. No definitive decisions will be made until the evaluation process concludes, with the Dutchman having a year remaining on his current contract in Manchester.