Shocking: Manager snubs Brighton & H. Albion and agrees 4-year deal with newcomers.

Kieran McKenna, the 38-year-old manager of Ipswich Town, has signed a new four-year contract with the club, ending rumors of a potential move to Brighton, Chelsea, or Manchester United.

McKenna’s extended contract keeps him at Portman Road until the summer of 2028. He expressed pride and excitement about continuing his journey with Ipswich, especially as the club prepares for its first Premier League season in 22 years following two successive promotions under his leadership.

Brighton, meanwhile, will persist in their search for a new manager following Roberto De Zerbi’s departure. Although McKenna was considered a top candidate, former Brighton manager Graham Potter is now the bookmakers’ favorite to return. Potter, who previously spent three successful seasons at the Amex Stadium before moving to Chelsea in 2022, has garnered mixed reactions from Brighton fans due to the circumstances of his earlier departure and his recruitment of key staff, including club legend Bruno.

Henrik Rydström, the Malmö FF manager and a Swedish league and cup winner, is also a strong contender for the Brighton job, currently second in the odds behind Potter and ahead of Southampton manager Russell Martin.