This is crazy : Kieran McKenna say’s Rough start but we’re getting stronger….
Kieran McKennai, manager of Ipswich Town, has been reflecting on his team’s start to the 2024/25 Premier League season, admitting that while the early stages have been tough, the squad is growing stronger with each match. Having just earned promotion from the Championship, Ipswich faced a steep learning curve, playing against formidable opponents such as Liverpool and Manchester City early in the campaign. This has tested the team’s resilience and tactical organization, yet McKenna remains optimistic about their trajectory.
Challenges in the Premier League
The Premier League is one of the most demanding leagues in the world, where the quality of opposition, physicality, and tactical acumen is far superior to what most newly promoted sides encounter in the Championship. Ipswich Town, returning to the Premier League for the first time since 2002, has found the adjustment challenging. However, McKenna, known for his meticulous preparation and deep tactical knowledge, seems to have anticipated these difficulties and has been focused on steady improvement rather than immediate results.
Ipswich’s first few fixtures have not been kind. A hard-fought draw against Fulham and a goalless stalemate at Brighton were positive signs of resilience, but losses to title contenders have highlighted areas for improvement. McKenna admitted that some of the team’s defeats were difficult to digest, but he emphasized that these games were valuable learning experiences for his players. The Premier League is unforgiving, and every match has been a test of Ipswich’s tactical discipline and mental toughness.
McKenna has been quick to praise his players for their mentality. While the results haven’t always been in their favor, Ipswich has shown grit and determination against stronger teams. The squad’s willingness to fight for every point, particularly against top-tier clubs, has been a key takeaway for McKenna, who feels the team is on the right path. He pointed out that while it’s been a “rough start,” the team is undoubtedly “getting stronger” with every match.
Tactical Adjustments and Squad Depth
A major part of Ipswich’s strategy under McKenna has been tactical flexibility. Unlike many promoted teams that stick rigidly to a defensive game plan, Ipswich has shown a willingness to adapt. McKenna has introduced different formations depending on the opponent, emphasizing ball retention, pressing, and quick transitions. This adaptability has been critical in enabling Ipswich to remain competitive, even when up against teams with more resources and Premier League experience.
One of the primary challenges for a newly promoted team is depth. The intensity and schedule of the Premier League demand a well-rounded squad, something that McKenna has been conscious of. Ipswich made several key signings during the summer transfer window to bolster their options, including the addition of young talents like Omari Hutchinson and experienced campaigners like Jack Taylor. These signings have brought much-needed balance to the squad, allowing Ipswich to remain competitive even when rotating players.
Leif Davis, one of McKenna’s key signings, has been particularly impressive in the early weeks of the season. The young full-back has contributed both defensively and offensively, showcasing his ability to get forward and deliver dangerous crosses while also maintaining positional discipline. McKenna’s trust in Davis and others like Hutchinson is a testament to his long-term vision for the club. He recognizes that building a Premier League-worthy team is a process, and the integration of these new players is a crucial part of that journey.
Focus on Team Mentality and Growth
McKenna’s management style has always been heavily centered around mentality. During his time as an assistant at Manchester United, he was known for his focus on instilling confidence in players and ensuring they were mentally prepared for the rigors of top-level football. At Ipswich, this has been no different. Even after difficult results, McKenna has maintained an unwavering belief in his squad, insisting that they remain “brave” and continue to play without fear.
Ipswich’s growth, McKenna suggests, is not just about results but about how the team performs against elite competition. Each game is an opportunity to improve, to learn from mistakes, and to build on positive aspects. The manager has placed particular emphasis on how the team responds to setbacks, encouraging his players to treat every challenge as a stepping stone toward long-term success. He believes that if the squad can maintain their self-belief, they will become stronger with every game.
The manager has also stressed the importance of staying grounded. While the team has made strides since the opening day, McKenna is aware that the road ahead remains difficult. Survival in the Premier League is often a season-long battle, particularly for newly promoted teams, and Ipswich will need to keep fighting week in, week out to stay above the relegation zone. McKenna’s message to his players is simple: focus on the process, not the outcome. Improvement is the key, and the results will follow.
Looking Ahead Despite the challenging start, Kieran McKenna remains optimistic about Ipswich Town’s future in the Premier League. He believes the team has the potential to not only survive but to thrive, provided they continue to grow as a unit. The manager is confident that the squad’s depth, tactical flexibility, and mental strength will allow them to adapt to the league’s demands as the season progresses.
McKenna’s calm yet determined approach is likely to be pivotal in Ipswich’s survival battle. His emphasis on learning from tough matches and staying mentally resilient has already paid dividends, and as the team continues to gel, Ipswich could become a formidable opponent for anyone in the Premier League.
Ultimately, McKenna’s vision for Ipswich is clear. While the start has been rough, the team is getting stronger with every passing game. The focus now is on maintaining that upward trajectory and proving that Ipswich Town can compete at the highest level in English football.
