Kieran McKenna opens up on decision to leave Manchester United for Ipswich Town

The 35-year-old has joined the League One club on a three-and-a-half year contract, replacing Paul Cook as their new manager.

After impressing in his role at Under-18s coach at Old Trafford, McKenna was promoted to the first-team staff by Jose Mourinho and played a prominent role under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The Northern Irishman was in the dugout for Ralf Rangnick’s first three games in charge but says he couldn’t turn down the chance his ‘ultimate ambition’ to move into management.

‘I’ll always be grateful to Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer,’ McKenna said.

‘I have learnt so much during the past four years and it was a pleasure to be part of such a dedicated group of staff.

‘I would like to thank Ralf Rangnick, I have really enjoyed the short time I have worked with him and I really appreciate his understanding throughout this process.

‘From the start of my coaching career, it has always been my ultimate ambition to move into football management and I now have a fantastic opportunity to do that at Ipswich Town, an amazing club with a fantastic history.

‘I want to thank the staff and players that I have worked with over the years and, of course, wish Ralf and this incredible club all the best for the future.’

United coach Martyn Pert has also left Old Trafford to become McKenna’s assistant manager at Ipswich.

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