United have made ‘initial contact’ with surprise managerial candidate to replace Ten Hag

Manchester United are seriously considering appointing Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna as a replacement for Erik ten Hag.

The Dutchman isn’t expected to survive at Old Trafford beyond the summer following a poor season.

Several managers have been linked with United, including Thomas Tuchel, Gareth Southgate and Graham Potter.

McKenna has also emerged as a potential candidate (h/t the Guardian).

The Red Devils have already made an ‘initial contact’ with the 38-year-old’s representatives but it is still early days.

McKenna was part of United’s coaching staff for six years before he joined Ipswich in 2021.

He guided his side to promotion in 2022-23 after finishing second in League One.

McKenna ended the Tractor Boys’ 22-year exile from the Premier League through back-to-back promotions this season.

The Suffolk-based outfit finished six points ahead of Leeds United to snatch the second automatic promotion spot in the Championship.

The former midfielder’s work at Portman Road is highly regarded by the Red Devils’ hierarchy, but bringing him back to Old Trafford will not be easy.

Ipswich are reportedly determined to keep hold of McKenna, and only a considerable compensation package could change their mind.

Football Today