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Kieran McKenna has announced his decision to step down as head coach of Ipswich Town, choosing to take a break from football.

The 40-year-old coach, who recently guided the Tractor Boys back into the Premier League, had been strongly linked with the vacant Fulham job following Marco Silva’s departure.

However, McKenna will not be taking up that or any other managerial position in the near future, opting instead to step away from the game temporarily to focus on his family.

Confirming his departure, McKenna said: “It is with a mixture of gratitude, pride, sadness and contentment that I have decided to step down from the honour of managing this historic football club.

“When you have the connection that we have built at this club, there is never a perfect time to say goodbye. However, after achieving a second promotion to the Premier League last season — with another unforgettable final day at our home ground — and following some reflection over the past couple of weeks, I feel this is the right moment for me to step aside.

“I do so with immense pride in the incredible progress we have made and with great hope and optimism for the club’s future.

“Managing this club has been an absolute privilege. Over the past five seasons, we have been on a remarkable journey that has delivered some of the best experiences of my professional and personal life.

“Having dedicated so much to this role over the last five years, I now look forward to taking some time away from management and spending quality time with my family, who have supported me throughout my entire career.”

McKenna went on to express his thanks to Mark Ashton and the Board for giving him the opportunity “to manage such a massive football club, and for the unwavering support and trust they have shown ever since,” as well as acknowledging the contributions of his coaching staff.

He added: “Most importantly, thank you to the incredible fans and supporters of Ipswich Town. You have followed this club through wonderful highs and difficult lows.

“I will forever be grateful for the way you welcomed me and my family, both to the club and to the county of Suffolk. I will cherish the memories we have shared for the rest of my life.

“Ipswich Town will always hold a special place in our hearts.”

McKenna was appointed as Ipswich Town manager in December 2021, after previously serving as an assistant to Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer during his coaching tenure at Manchester United.

During his time at the club, he managed 222 matches for the Tractor Boys, achieving promotion from League One and twice securing promotion to the Premier League.

Club chairman Mark Ashton praised McKenna’s record with Ipswich, calling his achievements “simply incredible.”

He said in a statement: “Achieving three promotions in four seasons, in your first managerial role, is an accomplishment that ensures Kieran is now rightly mentioned alongside the legends of this club.

“The impact that he, his staff, and his players have had on Ipswich Town and its community will last forever. They have inspired a new generation of supporters.

“Like many others, I am deeply saddened that our journey together has come to an end, but I fully understand and respect his decision after five incredibly demanding years.

“Kieran will be greatly missed, but he and his family leave with our heartfelt gratitude for everything they have done. He will always be welcome at Portman Road.”