Kieran McKenna makes confession after Man United, Chelsea and Brighton talks
Kieran McKenna has told friends he is holding out to take the Man United manager’s job, despite holding talks with Chelsea and Brighton, sources have told Football Insider.
Sources say the Ipswich Town boss’ “heart” is with his former club, where he worked as an assistant manager to Jose Mourinho, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralph Rangnick before taking over at Portman Road.
McKenna, 38, is already familiar with players and members of staff at Old Trafford, and would feel immediately comfortable.
As first revealed by Football Insider on 2 April, when we broke the news that United’s interest in the manager is “concrete”, McKenna is a leading contender for the post that could become vacant within days.
His representatives have held talks with United, Chelsea and Brighton but it is believed his priority is taking over at Old Trafford.
However, he must wait for Erik ten Hag to be dismissed from his job, after reports claimed INEOS would first complete a season review, with the manager’s role dominating the discussion.
Football Insider reported that fans were calling for the part-owners to keep Ten Hag in the job after their 2-1 win in the FA Cup final.
Kieran McKenna wants Man United job despite Chelsea interest
After working as an assistant manager at Old Trafford, McKenna joined Ipswich in 2021, where he guided them to back-to-back promotions from League One to the Premier League.
His stock has grown as one of the most highly-regarded young managers in England, attracting interest from top Premier League clubs as they scramble to replace departing managers.
It is also said that United officials have been impressed not only by the performances on the pitch but also by his attitude and character.
McKenna will hold talks with Ipswich this week, but it is increasingly likely he will depart Portman Road in the coming weeks.
In other news, Jadon Sancho has been backed to make a shock return to United.
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