Kieran McKenna is said to be open to becoming Celtic’s next manager, with the Northern Irishman reportedly among the candidates to replace Brendan Rodgers. Rodgers resigned as Celtic manager on Monday night, with Martin O’Neill returning to the Parkhead dugout on an interim basis.
McKenna led Ipswich back to the Premier League in 2024 after impressing in his role as Manchester United’s assistant manager. The Tractor Boys had a number of promising performances in the top flight, but were ultimately relegated to the Championship after one season. And they currently sit in 12th place in the second division, having won only four of their 11 games.
According to the BBC, McKenna has emerged as an attractive prospect for Celtic. And those involved have indicated to the company that he is open to the transfer.
However, Celtic could be deterred by the remuneration package they would have to agree with Ipswich in exchange for McKenna’s exploits.
The 39-year-old penned a new four-year contract at Portman Road following the team’s promotion. The Sun then reported that Celtic would have to pay Ipswich up to £5m in compensation to sign McKenna.
This could be the highest price ever paid by a Scottish club for a manager.
After Ipswich secured back-to-back promotions a year and a half ago, McKenna reportedly turned down interest from Manchester United, Chelsea and Brighton to stay at Portman Road.
And looking ahead to the 2024-25 season, he explained: “It’s part of the success, there’s interest from other clubs, and managerial careers are short. It’s right to consider things, but I’m very happy with my decision.”
“I am extremely proud to have signed a new contract with the club. We have had incredible success together over the past two seasons and I am thrilled to be given the opportunity and responsibility to lead this great club into its first Premier League season in 22 years.”
“I’m delighted to have committed my future to taking the next step with Ipswich Town and I’m really looking forward to seeing what happens as we continue this journey together.”
Celtic’s interim manager O’Neill will have a lot to do in the coming weeks to turn around the Hoops’ fortunes.
The current Scottish champions are now eight points behind leaders Hearts in the league table after losing to the Edinburgh side at the weekend.
And following Rodgers’ departure, Dermot Desmond, the club’s majority shareholder, issued an unprecedented statement, telling fans there was a “toxic atmosphere around the club”.
