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Kieran McKennaNorthern Irish footballer, coach
Date of Birth: 14.05.1986
Country:  Operator |
Content:
- Kieran McKenna: Northern Irish Footballer and Coach
- Coaching Career
- Manchester United Assistant Coach
- Ipswich Town Manager
- Achievements
Kieran McKenna: Northern Irish Footballer and Coach
Early Life and Playing CareerKieran McKenna is a Northern Irish former footballer and current manager of English club Ipswich Town. During his youth, he played for Enniskillen Town United, Ballinamallard United, and Tottenham Hotspur. However, at the age of 22 in 2009, a hip injury prematurely ended his playing career. Despite multiple surgeries and rehabilitation attempts, he was unable to resume his footballing pursuits. Although he represented Northern Ireland at under-19 and under-21 levels, he never appeared for a professional club.
Coaching Career
Following his playing retirement, McKenna transitioned into coaching at Tottenham Hotspur, where he led youth teams of various age groups. In 2015, he was appointed head coach of Tottenham's Under-18 team, guiding them to the semi-final of the FA Youth Cup.
In September 2016, McKenna joined Manchester United as head coach of their Under-18 side. Under his guidance, the team finished second in the Under-18 Premier League North in 2016/17 and emerged as champions in 2017/18.
Manchester United Assistant Coach
On July 1, 2018, McKenna and Michael Carrick were appointed as assistant coaches to Manchester United manager José Mourinho, replacing the departing Rui Faria. After Mourinho's departure, he continued in a coaching capacity under Ole Gunnar Solskjær. When Solskjær was dismissed in November 2021, McKenna remained at the club as an assistant to Michael Carrick and subsequently Ralf Rangnick.
Ipswich Town Manager
On December 16, 2021, Kieran McKenna was named manager of League One club Ipswich Town on a three-and-a-half-year contract.
Achievements
Manchester United Under-18Under-18 Premier League North Champions: 2017/18
