McKenna visits Old Trafford as Keane urges patience over Gabriel exit request

Kieran McKenna was present at Old Trafford to witness Manchester United’s Carabao Cup exit at the hands of Brighton, as the former Ipswich Town manager continues his search for a new club. The 40-year-old watched from the directors’ box as United squandered a 2-0 lead inside the opening ten minutes, allowing Brighton to complete a 3-2 comeback victory that heaped further pressure on manager Michael Carrick.

McKenna, who has been without a club since leaving Ipswich in June, has long-standing ties to Old Trafford. He served on United’s coaching staff alongside Carrick before joining Ipswich in December 2021, where he guided the club to back-to-back promotions and into the Premier League. United were understood to be interested in appointing McKenna as manager two years ago, ultimately opting instead to extend Erik ten Hag’s contract. On leaving Ipswich, McKenna said he intended to take a break from management and spend time with his family.

The defeat was compounded by the absence of teenage academy prospect JJ Gabriel, who had requested the club cancel his registration ahead of the tie. The 15-year-old had been regarded as one of United’s most exciting youth talents and featured during pre-season, but has yet to appear in a matchday squad this campaign.

Club legend Roy Keane addressed Gabriel’s situation directly, urging the youngster to bide his time rather than force a move away. Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, Keane said: “Are you telling me he can’t wait? If you are 15 years of age and you’re talking about playing for Man United’s first team, just wait. Can you wait another six weeks if United get through the cup?”

Keane acknowledged the difficulty of Carrick’s position, noting that while Sir Alex Ferguson was known for handing young players their debuts, the current climate demands results first. “Carrick’s under pressure,” Keane said. “United, they need wins right now.”

Carrick will now look to steady the ship in the Premier League when United face Fulham on Sunday, with the club in need of a response after consecutive setbacks.