How Man United feel about replacing Ruben Amorim with Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna | OneFootball

Kieran McKenna previously worked as a first-team coach at Manchester United

Manchester United retain an interest in Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna following the recent decision to sack Ruben Amorim on Monday.

According to journalist Chirs Winterburn, the Premier League side still have an eye on the Northern Irishman as they begin their search for a new head coach.

The Manchester outfit confirmed on Monday morning that they have opted to dismiss Amorim after the team’s 1-1 draw away to Leeds United on Sunday, in which the Portuguese boss embarked on a stunning post-match rant that cast immediate doubt over his future.

McKenna has previously worked at Old Trafford, initially as the U21 manager before stepping up as a first team coach under Jose Mourinho.

He was an assistant manager to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer prior to his move to Portman Road in December 2021, taking on his first role as manager of a senior team.

Manchester United’s interest in Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna after Ruben Amorim sack

Man United reportedly retain an interest in the potential appointment of McKenna following the departure of Amorim as head coach.

It was reported in May 2024 that the Premier League side made contact with Ipswich regarding the 39-year-old, but he opted to sign a new deal following promotion to the top flight.

It’s been claimed by The Athletic that a breakdown behind the scenes has led to Amorim’s sacking and that a permanent replacement may not be hired until the summer.

However, it’s understood that McKenna is still on the club’s radar, with Christopher Vivell set to take on a key role in finding Amorim’s successor.

Darren Fletcher has been placed in charge of Man United on an interim basis, and he will oversee their next game against Burnley, meaning Ipswich don’t have any immediate concerns regarding their manager’s future.

The Tractor Boys are currently third in the Championship table, and are in contention for automatic promotion back to the Premier League.

Next up for the Suffolk outfit is a home clash against Blackpool in the third round of the FA Cup on 10 January in a 3pm kick-off.

Kieran McKenna’s departure would be a huge loss for Ipswich

McKenna’s name has been linked with a lot of clubs during his time at Ipswich, including Man United previously, but he’s remained committed to the club.

But a return to Old Trafford right now would be appealing, especially as the team is in the mix for qualification for the Champions League for next season.

He also knows the club, and even some of the players who are still in the squad from his time as a coach there.

However, one positive sign for Ipswich is that the Red Devils look likely to wait until the summer before making any decision, which should benefit the Championship side as they could be promoted to the Premier League by then.