Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna has been officially removed from consideration for the managerial position at Chelsea Football Club in the wake of Mauricio Pochettino’s recent departure from the club.

Initially viewed as a potential candidate to succeed Pochettino, McKenna, 38, is no longer being considered and the focus has now shifted towards other leading contenders, including Roberto de Zerbi, Enzo Maresca, and Thomas Frank.

McKenna, who previously served as an assistant manager at Manchester United, was responsible for leading Ipswich Town to a promotion from the Championship. Despite his successes, it is understood that he may be in line for a potential return to Old Trafford if Erik ten Hag is relieved of his duties. Additionally, he has been linked with the vacant managerial position at Brighton.

The management at Ipswich Town is eager to retain McKenna and is expected to extend a new contract offer to him, although the likelihood of him renewing his current deal seems low. His existing contract with Ipswich runs until 2027, and any club seeking his services would be required to pay a compensation fee of at least £4 million.

Conversely, both De Zerbi and Maresca have conveyed their interest in joining Stamford Bridge, while there is limited information available regarding discussions with Frank, who has also been linked with Manchester United.

Chelsea is aiming to finalize the appointment of a new manager within the upcoming week, pending negotiations regarding the compensation fee with the candidate’s current club.

As the quest for the new Chelsea manager continues, the final choice for the helm of the London-based club remains to be seen.