Kieran McKenna has made the decision to step down as Ipswich Town's manager after leading the club back to the Premier League last season. 

McKenna was appointed as Paul Cook's successor in December 2021 and guided them to three promotions in four seasons, two of which have been to the top flight. 

The 40-year-old had been linked with the vacant Fulham job after Marco Silva's exit, but said his decision was to take a break from football and spend time with his family.

During his time at Portman Road, McKenna oversaw 222 matches across all competitions, winning 106 of those (D60 L56), averaging a win percentage of 47.3%. 

"It is with a mixture of gratitude, pride, sadness and contentment that I have decided to step down from the honour of managing this historic football club," McKenna said in a statement on the club's website. "To manage this club has been an absolute privilege.

"Over the last five seasons we have been on an incredible journey that has brought so many of the best experiences in my professional and personal life.   

"After giving so much to the role over the previous five seasons, I now look forward to taking a break from management and dedicating some time to my family, who have been with me every step of my career so far."

During his first full season in charge back in 2022-23, McKenna ended Ipswich's four-year stay in League One by finishing second to Plymouth Argyle to earn promotion. 

The following campaign, the Northern Irishman guided Ipswich back to the Premier League for the first time since 2001-02. 

His side accumulated 194 points and scored 193 goals over those two seasons and became the first club since Southampton in 2012 to secure back-to-back promotions from the third tier to the Premier League.

McKenna's achievements were recognised by established top-flight clubs, and despite being approached by Brighton and Chelsea, he signed a new contract with Ipswich in May 2024, keeping him at the club until 2028. 

The Tractor Boys finished the 2024-25 season with just 22 points, however, which was their lowest-ever tally in a league campaign (three points for a win), while their total of four wins is also their lowest ever in a league season.

But after finishing as runners-up to Coventry City last season, McKenna helped Ipswich return to the Premier League, where they will be hoping to stay next season.