Kieran McKenna steps down from Ipswich job 'to take break from football' in heartfelt statement

This development comes despite McKenna being the Cottagers' primary candidate to succeed Marco Silva in the dugout.

The Northern Irishman had recently guided the Tractor Boys back to the top flight at the first time of asking following their relegation.

His departure marks the end of a transformative spell at Portman Road that began in December 2021.

Ipswich have secured financial safeguards should their former boss decide to return to management within the next year.

The Suffolk club would receive compensation reflecting the time remaining on McKenna's contract up to the 12-month point, with the sum currently valued at roughly £7m.

Reports had previously indicated that Fulham were considering activating an £8m release clause to secure his services.

The west London outfit had also explored the possibility of appointing former Brentford and Tottenham manager Thomas Frank, though the Dane has since confirmed he will not be returning to the dugout this summer.

McKenna posted a statement after his decision, writing: “It is with a mixture of gratitude, pride, sadness and contentment that I have decided to step down from the honour of managing this historic football club.

“When you have the connection that we have built at this club there is never a good time to say goodbye.

"However, having achieved a second promotion to the Premier League last season, with another memorable final day in our stadium, and after reflection over the last couple of weeks, I feel this is the right time for me to step aside.

"I do so with great pride at the incredible progress we have made and with huge hope and optimism for the future of the club.

“To manage this club has been an absolute privilege. Over the last five seasons we have been on an incredible journey that has brought so many of the best experiences in my professional and personal life.

“After giving so much to the role over the previous five seasons, I now look forward to taking a break from management and dedicating some time to my family, who have been with me every step of my career so far."

McKenna inherited a club languishing in mid-table of the third tier, arriving just 24 hours after an embarrassing FA Cup exit to Barrow.

From those difficult beginnings, he steadied the ship before orchestrating consecutive promotions that ended Ipswich's 22-year absence from English football's elite division in 2024.

That summer brought interest from Chelsea, Manchester United and Brighton, yet the former Old Trafford assistant chose to remain loyal, penning a lucrative four-year deal.

His coaching pedigree includes working alongside Jose Mourinho, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick during five years at United.

Despite suffering immediate relegation upon their Premier League return, McKenna delivered another promotion this season.