Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna was a surprise guest in the West Ham United boardroom during their 3-0 Premier League defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, sources have told Football Insider.
McKenna, dressed casually in a jacket and jeans, was invited to the London Stadium for the London derby, sparking fresh speculation over his future. His appearance came less than 24 hours after his Ipswich side thrashed Sheffield United 5-0 in the Championship.
McKenna Tipped as Leading Candidate to Replace Graham Potter
The 39-year-old’s visit will only add to rumours that he is a frontrunner to succeed Graham Potter, whose position as West Ham manager is under mounting pressure. Potter has endured a poor start to the season, with fans increasingly voicing their frustration at performances and results.
McKenna has built an impressive reputation during his time at Ipswich, guiding the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions from League One to the Premier League before suffering relegation back to the Championship last season. His tactical approach and man-management have reportedly caught the attention of several top-flight clubs.
Potter reflects on tonight’s defeat to Tottenham.
— West Ham United (@WestHam) September 13, 2025
West Ham Manager Search: Mourinho and Nuno Also Linked
While McKenna is seen as a strong contender, he is not the only name linked with the West Ham job. Former Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho is reportedly interested in a return to the Premier League, with the Hammers monitoring his situation closely.
Meanwhile, Nuno Espirito Santo, recently dismissed by Nottingham Forest after a fallout with owner Evangelos Marinakis, has also been mentioned as a possible option.
What’s Next for West Ham United?
As speculation grows, the pressure on Graham Potter shows no signs of easing. With West Ham struggling for form and fan unrest increasing, the London Stadium hierarchy could soon be forced into making a managerial decision. Kieran McKenna’s boardroom appearance may prove to be a telling sign of what’s to come.
