Solskjaer and O'Neill compete for Ipswich manager role in 2026

Former Manchester United boss Solskjaer and Strasbourg manager O'Neill are top choices to replace McKenna at Ipswich.

Potential replacements emerge The search for Ipswich Town’s next manager has narrowed to two prominent candidates. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who previously led Manchester United, and Gary O’Neil, currently in charge at Strasbourg, are both under serious consideration. Solskjaer stepped away from coaching after leaving Manchester United in 2021 but expressed eagerness to return after his departure from Besiktas last summer. His candidacy comes despite United opting for Michael Carrick instead of him for the managerial role, as the club preferred a fresh face. ## McKenna's influence remains strong Kieran McKenna’s connection to both candidates adds weight to their interest. The departing Ipswich manager worked alongside Solskjaer during his time at Manchester United, where the Norwegian guided the team to a Premier League runners-up finish in the 2020-21 season. McKenna also had Martyn Pert as his assistant at United before taking charge at Ipswich in 2021. Under his leadership, the Tractor Boys secured three promotions in the past four years, including two that propelled them into the top flight. ## O'Neill's links deepen with club history Gary O’Neil’s ties to Ipswich extend beyond his managerial reputation. The club’s chief executive, Mark Ashton, previously served as CEO at Bristol City when O’Neil played there. Despite Strasbourg’s initial confidence in keeping the former Wolves manager, who joined the French side in January, his name remains in play for the Ipswich position. Strasbourg had hoped to retain him, but his candidacy persists as the Tractor Boys finalize their shortlist. ## McKenna exits with gratitude Ipswich will undergo a leadership transition after McKenna decided to step down last week. The Northern Irishman, who oversaw Ipswich’s return to the Premier League by finishing second in the Championship last season, had been linked with the Fulham vacancy following Marco Silva’s exit. Instead, he chose to take a break from football to prioritize family time. In his resignation statement, McKenna reflected on the club’s progress and expressed optimism for its future. He stated, 'I feel this is the right time for me to step aside.' He added, 'I do so with great pride at the incredible progress we have made and with huge hope and optimism for the future of the club.' ## Club seeks fresh direction With the managerial position vacant, Ipswich now turns its attention to finalizing a replacement. The club’s hierarchy has shown strong interest in both Solskjaer and O’Neil, with discussions likely underway to identify the best fit. McKenna’s departure marks the end of a highly successful era, but the search aims to build on the foundation he established. Both candidates bring Premier League experience and a track record of developing teams, making them attractive options for the Tractor Boys.