Ipswich Shake-Up Could Affect Halailel's Future

Kieran McKenna, who took the team from the third division to the Premier League, has ended his tenure.

One of the great stories in English football has come to an end. Kieran McKenna announced today, Wednesday, that he is stepping down as Ipswich manager and will take a break from football, after five impressive seasons on the club’s touchline. The Tractor Boys, who have been linked with the signing of Anan Khalaili, may now see the surprise move reshuffle the picture.

The 40-year-old Northern Irishman led the team back to the Premier League at the end of the current season, and as a result they intend to make a significant upgrade following their return to the spotlight. They see the Israeli as a player who could contribute a great deal, and are also prepared to pay the reported price tag, which is around 20 million euros. However, Napoli is still the favorite to sign him.

McKenna arrived at Portman Road in December 2021, when the club was struggling in England’s third tier. In a short time he produced a revolution and led the East Anglian side to three promotions in four years, including two promotions to the Premier League, and returned one of England’s historic clubs to the forefront.

After relegation in 2025, he stayed at the club despite interest from other teams and managed to bring it straight back to the top flight at the end of the 2025/26 season, where they finished second in the Championship. Those around him made clear that he does not intend to take on a new role in the near future, but instead to devote time to his family after intense years on the touchline. Gary O’Neil and Liam Rosenior are mentioned as the leading candidates to replace him.