Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna is encouraging Northern Ireland’s rising stars to seize the “once in a lifetime opportunity” of the U19 European Championship on home turf. McKenna, who captained Northern Ireland in the tournament when it was last hosted, reflects fondly on the experience and believes it was a crucial stepping stone in his own career development.
Despite a premature end to his playing career, McKenna has flourished as a manager and is now preparing Ipswich for life in the Premier League. Looking back at his time in the U19 Euros, McKenna emphasizes the importance of embracing the challenge and making the most of the exposure and learning opportunities that come with such prestigious events.
As the Class of 2024 gears up for the upcoming tournament under Gareth McAuley’s guidance, McKenna advises them to enjoy the occasion, view it as a launching pad for their future careers, and approach each game with competitiveness and determination. With a talented group of players already making waves in England and Scotland, McKenna sees this tournament as a vital next step in their development towards potentially representing Northern Ireland at senior level.
