Gary O’Neil is poised to become the new head coach of Ipswich Town, with only minor details left to finalise before the 43-year-old returns to England from Ligue 1 side Strasbourg.
The move will see O’Neil succeed Kieran McKenna, who recently announced his desire to leave Portman Road after guiding Ipswich back to the Premier League for a second time. O’Neil’s appointment marks the latest chapter in his coaching career, following an impressive spell in France.
Strasbourg Spell and European Run
O’Neil joined Strasbourg in January 2026 as part of the BlueCo multi-club network that also owns Chelsea, replacing Liam Rosenior after the latter took over at Stamford Bridge. His tenure in Alsace was brief but impactful: he led the club to an eighth-place finish in Ligue 1 and guided them to the semi-finals of the UEFA Conference League, where they were eliminated by Rayo Vallecano.
Before moving to France, O’Neil had been out of management since leaving Wolves in late 2024. He came close to rejoining the Molineux club last November but pulled out at the 11th hour due to personal reservations. Now, the former midfielder appears ready to embrace a new challenge in the Premier League.
Ipswich Connection and Managerial Fit
A key factor in the deal is O’Neil’s long-standing relationship with Ipswich chief executive Mark Ashton. The two first worked together during O’Neil’s playing days at Bristol City, where Ashton was involved in his signing. That existing bond is believed to have smoothed negotiations and given Ipswich confidence that they have found the right man to build on McKenna’s foundation.
O’Neil’s playing career included stints at several clubs with ties to the East Anglian region—most notably Norwich City, Ipswich’s fierce rivals. He also held talks with Southampton last year, despite beginning his professional journey along the south coast at Portsmouth. That breadth of experience, combined with his tactical acumen, makes him an appealing candidate for a team aiming to consolidate its top-flight status.
“He knows the Premier League inside out and has shown he can compete against top sides,” a source close to the club said. “There’s a real belief he can stabilise us and push on.”
Burnley Eye Bellamy as Parker’s Successor
Meanwhile, Burnley are pushing to appoint Craig Bellamy as their new head coach after contacting the Football Association of Wales. The Clarets are seeking a replacement for Scott Parker following relegation to the Championship and had previously been interested in Russell Martin, who instead took charge at Leicester City.
Bellamy, currently Wales manager, previously worked as an assistant to Vincent Kompany at Turf Moor and served as interim head coach when Kompany departed for Bayern Munich in 2024. Though he has publicly stated his desire to lead Wales at Euro 2028—which begins in Cardiff—he has also admitted he is attracted to club management. “Wales gave me this opportunity and one or two might not have because I was conscious I haven’t managed before,” Bellamy said this month. “It’s the best role in the world.”
Key Takeaways
- Gary O’Neil is on the verge of leaving Strasbourg to take over as Ipswich Town head coach, succeeding Kieran McKenna.
- O’Neil guided Strasbourg to eighth in Ligue 1 and the Conference League semi-finals during his short spell in France.
- His existing relationship with Ipswich CEO Mark Ashton has been instrumental in the negotiations.
- Burnley are targeting Wales boss Craig Bellamy as their next manager, approaching the FAW for permission.
- O’Neil’s Premier League experience and tactical flexibility are seen as key assets for Ipswich’s top-flight survival bid.
Quick Facts
Outgoing club: Strasbourg (Ligue 1)
New role: Ipswich Town head coach
Previous Premier League job: Wolves (sacked 2024)
Strasbourg record: 8th in Ligue 1, Conference League semi-finals
Playing career clubs: Portsmouth, Bristol City, Norwich, others
Contract status: Minor details to be finalised
Additional reporting by The Guardian.
