Gary O’Neil appointed Ipswich manager for Premier League return after Kieran McKenna’s exit

Ipswich Town have officially announced Gary O’Neil as their new manager, as the club prepares for its highly anticipated return to the Premier League . The 43-year-old, who previously managed French side Strasbourg , has committed to a three-year deal that will see him at Portman Road until the summer of 2029. Speaking on the club’s official website, O’Neil expressed his enthusiasm for the role. "It is an honour to be appointed manager of this great football club," he said. "I have followed the progress the club has made over the last few years closely and to now have the opportunity to lead Ipswich in the Premier League is something I am hugely excited by." O’Neil’s appointment follows the departure of Kieran McKenna , who stepped down earlier this month after five successful years at the helm. Kieran McKenna stood down as Ipswich boss after guiding the club back into the Premier League (Nigel French/PA) (PA Wire) McKenna famously guided Ipswich to automatic promotion from the Sky Bet Championship at the end of last season, securing their place in the top flight. Former Bournemouth and Wolves boss O’Neil brings a wealth of experience, having led Strasbourg to the semi-finals of European football’s Conference League and the Coupe de France. He becomes only the 20th manager in the club’s 90-year history. He will be joined by Tim Jenkins, Neil Critchley, and Ed Ames, who will form part of his backroom staff, having worked alongside him during his tenure in France. O’Neil added: "There is a strong vision and ambition at this club and I am fully aware of the responsibility that brings, given how much it means to its supporters and to the community of Ipswich and Suffolk. “We all know the challenge ahead as we prepare for the season together and I’m excited to meet everyone and get to work." Ipswich are due to play their first Premier League game on 22 August when they host Sunderland at Portman Road. That match will be followed by a trip to Old Trafford to face Manchester United the following weekend before they play Liverpool at home in their first game in September. Ipswich were relegated from the Premier League after a solitary season in 2025, but will hope to extend their stay this time around under O’Neil.