As Chelsea moves closer to hiring Mauricio Pochettino’s replacement, they have reportedly ruled out making Kieran McKenna, the manager of Ipswich Town, their new manager.
The 38-year-old, who guided Ipswich Town back to the Premier League this season, was thought to be a strong candidate to succeed Pochettino.
Co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart are in charge of finding a replacement for the Argentinian, who left on good terms after failing to come to an agreement with Chelsea regarding the amount of authority he would be granted over football matters.
The club’s co-controlling owners, Todd Boehly, Behdad Eghbali—who is rumored to have been ambivalent about Pochettino staying in the role—and Jose E. Feliciano must ultimately approve any appointment.
McKenna, a former coach at Manchester United and Tottenham, was appointed to his first senior managerial position at Portman Road in 2021, when the team was in the third division.
Since helping Ipswich to consecutive promotions, he has established himself as one of the nation’s most in-demand coaches.
The Chelsea hierarchy, according to Ornstein, “clearly admires” McKenna, but they “have narrowed the possibilities down to a select group that does not feature the former Manchester United assistant.”
Eden Hazard, a former winger for Chelsea, said he was “sad” to see Pochettino go at the end of the season and believes Cesc Fabregas will take his place.
When asked how he felt about Pochettino leaving Stamford Bridge, Hazard responded, “To be honest, I was a little sad.” I believe he did a fantastic job.
“I understand that many want Chelsea to finish in the top four, but this is just a transitional season.” He’s an excellent manager, and I hope the best for him. Observe who will be present in the future.
Hazard responded, “Maybe,” when asked if Roberto De Zerbi, the former Brighton manager, ought to take over as Chelsea’s new manager. My friend is in Como [Fabregas] as well. He might take the lead as manager [winks].
