McKenna Addresses Rumors About Replacing Pochettino at Chelsea

Ipswich Town head coach Kieran McKenna has downplayed the speculation linking him with a move to Chelsea to replace Mauricio Pochettino.

McKenna has led Ipswich Town to two consecutive promotions, with the club now set to compete in the Premier League for the 2024-25 season.

Rumors have surfaced that Chelsea is considering McKenna as a possible successor to Pochettino, whose departure from the London club was confirmed on Tuesday. Additionally, Manchester United has reportedly reached out to McKenna about a potential return to Old Trafford, given that Erik ten Hag’s future could be in jeopardy after the FA Cup final this weekend.

Recently named LMA Manager of the Year, the 38-year-old McKenna acknowledged that speculation is natural given Ipswich’s recent successes.

McKenna’s Response to Chelsea Speculation

“Our club has had such a positive season with a bright future ahead. We’ve achieved so much in the past two years, and with that success, speculation is inevitable,” McKenna told Sky Sports News. “But our focus is on the excitement and anticipation for the upcoming season.”

“When you perform well as a manager or player, there’s always going to be talk. What we’ve achieved isn’t ordinary, so naturally, there will be rumors. But my attention isn’t on that right now. Tonight, we’re celebrating our achievements over the past seasons—it’s been a fantastic journey for everyone involved at the club.”

Potential Candidates for the Chelsea Job

Chelsea is reportedly eyeing Leicester City head coach Enzo Maresca as their top candidate to fill the head coach position this summer. Maresca has successfully led Leicester back to the Premier League for the 2024-25 season. According to journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Maresca could leave Leicester for Chelsea.

Other names in the mix include Roberto De Zerbi, who is available after leaving Brighton & Hove Albion, Brentford’s Thomas Frank, Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, and Bayern Munich’s Thomas Tuchel.

Chelsea finished sixth in this season’s Premier League and will compete in either the Europa League or Conference League in the 2024-25 campaign.