McKenna was promoted by Jose Mourinho
Manchester United players are unhappy with first-team coach Kieran McKenna’s ‘dry and school-teacherly’ approach, according to reports.
United are currently looking to appoint an interim manager following the dismissal of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at the weekend, with Michael Carrick being named caretaker boss.
Following the disappointing 4-1 thrashing against Watford on Saturday, Carrick’s first test in the hot-seat will see United face-off against Villarreal in their fifth Champions League group match on Tuesday night.
However, along with searching for both an interim and permanent manager, the Red Devils are reportedly faced with some dressing room frustration.
Kieran McKenna played a significant role in training and team selection, and often gave team talks instead of Solskjaer on the evening before games. One former United defender was convinced he wasn't being picked simply because "McKenna doesn't like me." [@RobDawsonESPN]
— United Zone (@ManUnitedZone_) November 21, 2021
It is thought that a number of the club’s first-team players are unhappy with the decision to retain coach Kieran McKenna, as per the Daily Mail.
McKenna – along with Mike Phelan – was expected to leave the club with Solskjaer, however, both coaches have retained their positions, a decision that hasn’t gone down well with the squad.
The report adds that McKenna – who joined the club from the Tottenham Hotspur Under 23 set-up and was promoted by Jose Mourinho when coaches were leaving United – does not command respect.
Players feel that he is ‘dry and school-teacherly in his delivery’ and are thought to be ‘baffled’ that he has been able to rise to such a senior position within the club.
With Solskjaer no longer at the helm, it remains to be seen whether or not the 35-year-old will retain his role when a new manager is appointed.
Related links:
- Phil Jones travels with Man Utd squad for Villarreal game despite being ineligible
- The Man United XI Michael Carrick should pick for his first game as manager
- Zlatan Ibrahimovic explains why he floored Azpilicueta with vicious off-ball shoulder charge
