Manchester United players had major issues with Kieran Mckenna over his 5 year spell at Old Trafford from 2016-2021. With Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS’ takeover, a transition will behold upon The Red Devils.
Several players are already on their way out of the club. Erik Ten Hag could also be on his way out after The Red Devils’ worst ever Premier League finish!
Kieran Mckenna is currently the Manager of Ipswich Town. INEOS consider Kieran Mckenna as a possible replacement for Erik Ten Hag.
Kieran Mckenna’s magnificent managerial journey!
Mckenna began his managerial career with Tottenham Hotspur’s U18 side in London. After a year with Spurs, Mckenna moved to Old Trafford. He managed the United U18 squad for two years and guided The Red Devils to the Premier League Northern Division Title.
In 2018, Jose Mourinho promoted Kieran Mckenna along with Michael Carrick to the senior staff. Mckenna was made the Assistant Manager. However, Mourinho had to leave due to a poor start to the season. But, Mckenna and Carrick retained their positions under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Later, Ralf Rangnick retained Mckenna again.
However, he was eventually asked to move on. Mckenna took charge of Ipswich Town in December 2021. Additionally, Ipswich Town were a part of EFL League One at the time. Ipswich finished 11th under Mckenna’s first season in-charge.
Although, tides turned quickly. In the 2022-23 season, Mckenna led Ipswich to a 2nd place finish in EFL League One with 98 points, earning automatic promotion to the EFL Championship 2022-23. Ipswich’s red hot streak under Mckenna continued as they finished a point behind Leicester in the EFL Championship 2023-24. Now, Ipswich Town and Mckenna have successfully gained automatic promotion to the Premier League.
Kieran Mckenna worked wonders with Ipswich earning consecutive automatic promotions and now could be on his way to manage another Premier League side.
Manchester United will have to battle for Kieran Mckenna!
Erik Ten Hag’s situation will be clarified soon by INEOS. Even if The Red Devils muster up a win against City in the Manchester derby in the FA Cup Final at Wembley, Manchester United’s poor season won’t be overshadowed!
The Red Devils finished 8th on the Premier League table with 60 points! This is the worst ever finish in Manchester United’s history. INEOS have identified Kieran Mckenna as a probable target due to his illustrious achievements at Portman Road. Mckenna could make a return to the Old Trafford as United boss.
However, The Red Devils won’t be alone to go for Mckenna. Roberto De Zerbi recent left Brighton which means The Seagulls will be lurking as well. Additionally, Chelsea mutually parted ways with Mauricio Pochettino. Therefore, The Blues may also make an offer for Mckenna.
United players less enthusiastic about signing Kieran Mckenna?
Kieran Mckenna’s familiarity with Manchester United can be both good news and bad news. Good in the sense that Mckenna won’t need additional time to settle in. However, United players weren’t convinced of Mckenna’s coaching methods during his first spell at the Old Trafford.
Many reports suggested that Mckenna’s methods were not of senior squad quality and that his coaching methods were more suited to academy football. Additionally, many players questioned Mckenna’s lack of experience as a coach.
What should Manchester United do?
Despite a poor season, firing Erik Ten Hag will be a cruel verdict. While United haven’t blossomed under Ten Hag, the amount of injuries/illness can’t be ignored.
Ten Hag had to play with an inconsistent and ever-changing Manchester United squad. Additionally, many key players were out of form. Moreover, Ten Hag had a good first season with Manchester United helping them to a Champions League place. Additionally, The Red Devils won their first trophy in 6 years under the Dutchman!
Needless to say, Ten Hag could still be sacked. However, is Kieran Mckenna the right replacement for United? More to find out as drama unfolds in the summer transfer market window!
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