Gary O'Neil leaves Strasbourg to become Ipswich Town manager

Gary O'Neil has departed RC Strasbourg Alsace to take over as manager of newly-promoted Ipswich Town, a move officially confirmed on Tuesday. He replaces Kieran McKenna, who guided Ipswich back to the Premier League before announcing a break from football.

O'Neil was identified as Ipswich's priority target after McKenna's departure left the club searching for a successor. The Englishman had only joined Strasbourg in January, succeeding Liam Rosenior, who moved to Chelsea, another BlueCo-owned club.

O'Neil previously managed Wolverhampton Wanderers and AFC Bournemouth before taking the Strasbourg job. He enjoyed a strong start at the Meinau stadium, but his side's form tailed off towards the end of the campaign.

By the season's end, Strasbourg abandoned hopes of qualifying for European competition through the league and shifted focus to cup tournaments. The club was eliminated at the semi-final stage of both the UEFA Europa Conference League and the Coupe de France.

O'Neil's departure leaves Strasbourg without a manager as they conclude the season. At Ipswich Town, he will be assisted by Tim Jenkins, Neil Critchley and Ed Ames on the coaching staff.

O'Neil's brief spell at Strasbourg lasted only a few months before his departure. The English manager leaves the club as its season concludes without European qualification.

The report was authored by Luke Entwistle for GFFN. Strasbourg and Chelsea are both owned by BlueCo.