McKenna stands down

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I thought those Fulham rumours seemed a bit too concerning this time. Cheaper for Fulham having to pay compensation rather than the full £8 million. But apparently it’s genuine and he doesn’t have another move lined up. I guess two Premier League relegations on the resume was too risky for him.

Nature of the end feels a bit odd to me, but after three promotions in four years - I’m not begrudging him moving on. He’s given me - and many others - some of our best memories as an Ipswich fan. Certainly given the context of the last two odd decades. Arguably leaves us as our fourth most successful manager. Given what he inherited, he’s left us in a far better position.

This next appointment is key. Maybe - whisper it - a chance to upgrade the manager position. Really hope we’re ambitious and try and tempt someone who can keep us in the Premier League. Possibly time for our first foreign (not counting Ireland) manager?
 
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Well that’s caught me on the hop a little. I did think a potential move to a Fulham level of club was likely, but a break is a surprise. Whoever comes in next, we are an attractive proposition. Well run, well funded, good stadium and new big changes at Playford Road. Hope the new manager is sorted soon.
 
It’s good that it’s happened early in the summer as any new manager will have their own back room staff and transfer targets. We cannot afford to start next season slowly as that will almost guarantee relegation. Kmc goes with almost everyone’s blessing (there are a few people negative on him but these might be Norwich trolls). - the back to back promotions where we scored over 190 goals in 2 seasons will never be forgotten
 
A true legend of the club, amazing achievements, a top class manager and man. Some big shoes to fill and I believe our job of staying in the Prem becomes a lot harder particularly with some of the attacking players we've got who feel like McKenna projects.
 
Recommend watching his goodbye video on the club’s social media. A lovely message from him and you can hear the emotion in his voice, particularly at the end.

Seems like he genuinely wants to spend more time with the family and the last few years has taken it out of him. Whatever club has him next will be incredibly lucky.

Thanks again, Kieran.
 
I was sad but not too surprised to hear McKenna's stepping back. Since first watching Town in 1959, I have not witnessed such a wonderful period. Kieron's time in charge of Ipswich has been nothing short of incredible.

But, I am sure four full seasons in charge which have brought three astonishing promotions has taken its toll, physically and mentally. He is a lovely family man with young kids.

He will be sorely missed, not least by the players who have thrived under his managerial style, character, coaching and friendship.

We wish him all the best and know he will always be welcome back in Suffolk.
 
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This has been inevitable for some time. I suppose the Farage nonsense was the final straw - and who can blame him?

I think it’s a good time for everyone. I think McKenna will genuinely benefit from a break to reflect and for us, the ideas were stale and predictable. The football was flat and the spark was gone and this is an opportunity for some fresh energy.

That’s not a reflection on McKenna’s achievements and character. It’s just burnout after blazing so brightly and then falling so hard. If anything it makes our slog to promotion this time even more of an achievement.