Updated March 17, 2026
Relegated from the Premier League but pushing for an immediate return
Ipswich Town are back in the Championship after a single season in the Premier League, relegated alongside Southampton and Leicester City. It was the club's first top-flight campaign since 2001-02, having earned promotion through back-to-back rises under Kieran McKenna. Rather than wallowing, Ipswich have hit the ground running in the second tier, sitting third with 68 points from 37 games and firmly in the automatic promotion places. Portman Road is daring to dream of an immediate return.
Kieran McKenna's project remains intact despite the drop
The decision to retain Kieran McKenna after relegation has proven inspired. The Northern Irish manager, who orchestrated consecutive promotions from League One to the Premier League, has seamlessly adapted his methods back to Championship level. His tactical flexibility and ability to develop players have kept Ipswich competitive at every level, and the continuity of his project gives the Tractor Boys a significant advantage over other relegated sides who opted for managerial change.