Ipswich Town have officially confirmed Gary O'Neil as their new manager, as the club gears up for its eagerly awaited return to the Premier League. The 43-year-old has committed to a three-year deal at Portman Road, which will see him at the helm until the summer of 2029.
O'Neil, who previously managed French side Strasbourg, expressed his excitement about the new role. Speaking on the club's official website, he stated, "It is an honour to be appointed manager of this great football club. I have followed the progress the club has made over the last few years closely and to now have the opportunity to lead Ipswich in the Premier League is something I am hugely excited by."
His appointment follows the departure of Kieran McKenna, who stepped down earlier this month after a highly successful five-year tenure. McKenna famously guided Ipswich to automatic promotion from the Sky Bet Championship at the end of last season, securing their place in the top flight after decades away from the Premier League.
O'Neil brings considerable experience, having previously managed Bournemouth and Wolves in the Premier League, and more recently leading Strasbourg to the semi-finals of European football's Conference League and the Coupe de France. He becomes only the 20th manager in the club's 90-year history. He will be joined by Tim Jenkins, Neil Critchley, and Ed Ames, who were part of his backroom staff during his time in France.
Addressing the challenges ahead, O'Neil added, "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."
Ipswich is set to play their first Premier League game on August 22, hosting Sunderland at Portman Road. This will be followed by a trip to Old Trafford to face Manchester United the following weekend, before a home fixture against Liverpool in their first game of September. The club will be hoping to extend their stay in the top flight this time around, having been relegated after a solitary season in 2025 during their last Premier League appearance.
Source: Ipswich Town Official Website