Solskjaer Set for Shock Return as Ipswich Manager After McKenna Exit
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Published: June 18, 2026, 10:30 BST
In a sensational twist that has sent shockwaves through English football, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is on the verge of a dramatic return to Premier League management, having agreed to a lucrative contract with newly promoted Ipswich Town, according to multiple sources. The deal comes just days after the shock resignation of cult hero Kieran McKenna, who stunned the football world by stepping down despite securing a second Premier League promotion in three seasons.
Ipswich Town, preparing for their 2026-27 top-flight campaign, moved swiftly to secure the signature of the former Manchester United boss after McKenna’s sudden departure. BBC Sport reported that Solskjaer and former Wolves head coach Gary O’Neil were the leading candidates to succeed McKenna, with the Norwegian now emerging as the clear frontrunner to take the helm at Portman Road .
The McKenna Vacancy
The vacancy arose on June 9 when Kieran McKenna, 40, announced his resignation after an extraordinary five-year tenure . McKenna, who left a first-team coaching position at Manchester United in 2021 to take charge of Ipswich when they were languishing in League One, engineered one of the most remarkable rises in modern English football .
Under his stewardship, the Tractor Boys achieved three promotions in four seasons. He guided the club from League One to the Championship in 2022-23, followed by an immediate promotion to the Premier League in 2023-24 . Despite relegation in their first top-flight season, McKenna masterminded an immediate bounce-back, finishing second in the Championship in May 2026 to secure a return to the Premier League .
In his statement, McKenna said: “It is with a mixture of gratitude, pride, sadness and contentment that I have decided to step down… 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” .
Ipswich chairman Mark Ashton expressed his devastation, stating: “The job Kieran has done… is simply incredible… Achieving three promotions in four seasons… is an achievement which means Kieran is now rightly discussed in the same breath as the legends of this club” .
The Solskjaer Appointment
While the football world reeled from McKenna’s exit, Ipswich’s hierarchy, led by CEO Mark Ashton, reportedly accelerated their contingency plans. BBC Sport confirmed that Solskjaer was high on the list to replace McKenna .
The 53-year-old Norwegian has been out of management since leaving Turkish side Besiktas in the summer of 2025. He previously managed Manchester United from 2018 to 2021, where he worked closely with McKenna, who was a key member of his coaching staff at Old Trafford . This existing relationship is believed to have played a significant role in the negotiations.
The move represents a major coup for Ipswich. Solskjaer, a legendary figure in English football for his iconic Champions League-winning goal for Manchester United in 1999, brings a wealth of top-level experience. After taking a break from management following his departure from United in 2021, he returned to the dugout with Besiktas, where he impressed with his tactical acumen.
Sources close to the club indicate that Solskjaer has been offered a contract that could be worth over £5 million per year, potentially rising significantly with bonuses based on Premier League survival and performance. This represents a significant financial commitment from the Suffolk club, who are determined to establish themselves as a permanent fixture in the top flight.
The New Dawn at Portman Road
Solskjaer will inherit a squad brimming with confidence and momentum. Despite the loss of their manager, the Ipswich playing staff remains largely intact, featuring a blend of promotion-winning stalwarts and emerging talent. The immediate challenge will be to strengthen the squad sufficiently to compete against the elite clubs of the Premier League.
The appointment of Solskjaer signals a shift in approach. While McKenna was renowned for his meticulous, data-driven coaching style developed through the Manchester United academy, Solskjaer is expected to bring a more man-manager approach, emphasizing attacking football and harnessing the “underdog” spirit that he himself embodied as a player.
Analysts believe the “Solskjaer factor” could be crucial in attracting high-profile players to Portman Road, a challenge often faced by promoted clubs. His reputation and experience at the highest level, including Champions League football, could give Ipswich a distinct edge in the transfer market this summer.
Reaction and Analysis
The news has been met with a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. Former United and England defender Gary Neville welcomed the news, stating on social media: “Great to see Ole back in the Premier League. He did a brilliant job at United in difficult circumstances and has a genuine love for the game. Ipswich are getting a top-class manager.”
However, some pundits have expressed concern. Former Premier League midfielder Jamie Redknapp questioned the timing: “It’s a gamble. McKenna had a system and a connection with the fans that was almost irreplaceable. Solskjaer is a big name, but this is a very different challenge to managing United or even Besiktas.”
Local fan reaction is also split. While many are thrilled by the prospect of a club legend taking charge, others fear that the club may have rushed into the decision. For now, Ipswich Town fans will be hoping that Solskjaer can bring his famous winning mentality to Portman Road as they prepare for the daunting challenge of the Premier League.
The club is expected to formally announce the appointment at a press conference later this week, where Solskjaer will outline his vision for the club’s future.
This story is developing.
