The Guardian has stated that manchester united have initiated 'initial contact' with Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna, with Erik ten HagThe future is under heavy speculation.
A poor campaign in which the Red Devils have failed to finish in the top four could culminate in the Dutchman's sacking, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe expected to make a decision after the FA Cup Final.
If ten Hag is removed, McKenna will emerge as a “surprise candidate”, according to The Guardian. The report adds that United have already held initial talks and McKenna is under “serious consideration” to fill the hot spot.
McKenna spent six years at Manchester United in different positions. The 38-year-old began as head coach of the under-18s for two years in 2016, leading them to the first division North Division. He then served as assistant manager to José Mourinho, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick in a role that lasted three years on the bench.
He left in November 2021 to coach Ipswich Town and has produced commendable results; most recently, he earned them promotion to the Premier League for the first time in over two decades.
Brighton & Hove Albion are eyeing him as a replacement option for Roberto De Zerbi amid interest from Serie A, while Brentford are also candidates for his services if Thomas Frank, another manager linked with Manchester United, leaves this summer.
Ipswich will hold talks with McKenna soon and hope to convince him to lead them in their Premier League adventure next season.
Man Utd and McKenna could be a successful match
Kieran McKenna would find it difficult to turn down Manchester United if they offer him a compelling sporting project and, as such, their partnership could prove to be a perfect match.
The English coach would already know several players on the team after having worked closely with them in the recent past. He can use this experience to bring out the best in them if he is appointed to the head coaching position.
That said, his achievement in leading Ipswich to the Premier League speaks for itself.
McKenna has played an attacking style of football that has seen his team Score more than 90 goals in the championship this season..
Manchester United need exactly that – a direct attacking game plan – and there may be no better person to achieve this than someone who has worked at the club for more than five years.
