Kieran McKenna steps down after securing Ipswich promotion

Kieran McKenna has stepped down as Ipswich Town manager after leading the club back to the Premier League. The decision, announced on Wednesday, surprised many given the immediate prospect of another season at the highest level.

McKenna, 40, framed his departure as a personal choice following sustained commitment to the role. He said he would be “dedicating some time” to his family after taking the decision to leave the job he held for five seasons.

“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,” the 40-year-old outlined in a club statement.

“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.”

In further comment, McKenna acknowledged the intensity of his spell in charge and signalled a need to pause. “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,” he explained.

The club confirmed the manager’s resignation following promotion back to the Premier League, and the immediate focus will be on appointing a successor able to build on the recent progress.

McKenna’s immediate future appears to be away from the spotlight for now. It remains to be seen how long he remains on the sidelines.