Ipswich confirm Gary O’Neil as new manager

Newly promoted Premier League side Ipswich Town have confirmed the signing of Gary O’Neil as their new manager, following the surprise departure of Kieran McKenna.

McKenna, who has been at the helm at Ipswich, decided to step down after five years at Portman Road, prompting The Tractor Boys to seek an immediate replacement.

Meanwhile, McKenna had been linked with the vacant Fulham job, but instead decided to take a break from football.

O’Neil, who has extensive experience in the Premier League with Bournemouth and Wolves, was sacked by Wolves in December 2024 after a poor start to the season and spent more than a year away from management.

The 43-year-old replaced Liam Rosenior at Strasbourg in January, following the English manager’s decision to join sister club Chelsea, guiding the French side into the Conference League semi-finals.

Gary O’Neil appointed Ipswich Town Manager, signing a three-year contract – Portman Road, Ipswich, UK – 22nd June 2026

Speaking after his appointment, O’Neil said: “It is an honour to be appointed Manager of this great football club,” he told the club in an official statement.

“I have followed the progress the club has made over the last few years closely and to now have the opportunity to lead Ipswich Town in the Premier League is something I am hugely excited by.

“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.”

He will be joined by Tim Jenkins, Neil Critchley and Ed Ames for his backroom staff, having worked alongside O’Neil at Strasbourg, with a compensation fee already agreed between both sides.

Following O’Neil’s appointment, Ipswich chairman Mark Ashton said: “He is a manager who has been on our radar for some time and, following a thorough and robust process, during which we met with a wide range of candidates, it became clear he was the leading candidate for the position.

Gary O’Neil appointed Ipswich Town Manager, together with club chairman Mark Ashton – Portman Road, Ipswich, UK – 22nd June 2026

“He is highly motivated, highly regarded, has an incredible attention to detail and tactical knowledge and is an excellent coach with a real track record of improving players.

“Despite being just a few years into his managerial career, he has already shown he knows what is required to succeed in the Premier League at both Bournemouth and Wolves, while also leading Strasbourg to a European semi-final last season.

“He brings a hunger and desire to succeed at the top level of the game and, with the full support of everyone at the club, I am excited to see what we can achieve together.”

Ipswich will host Sunderland on the opening weekend of the season on August 22.