Shocking:Ipswich Town: McKenna on the futures of Aro Muric and Cieran Slicker
Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna has provided fresh insight into the futures of goalkeepers Aro Muric and Cieran Slicker, amid ongoing speculation regarding their roles ahead of the new Championship season. Speaking during pre-season preparations, McKenna offered clarity on both players’ situations as the club looks to finalize its squad ahead of a crucial campaign.
Muric, who joined the Tractor Boys earlier in the summer from Burnley, arrived with a strong reputation and Championship-winning experience under his belt. However, questions have lingered regarding whether the Kosovan international would be the outright number one at Portman Road, or if he would face stiff competition. McKenna addressed the uncertainty by affirming the club’s confidence in Muric’s quality and leadership but made it clear that no positions are guaranteed.
“Aro brings experience and composure,” McKenna said. “He’s settled in well, and we brought him in with the intention of strengthening the squad. He understands what’s expected at this level and above, but like everyone else, he has to earn his place.”
Meanwhile, Cieran Slicker, who has been part of the club since his arrival from Manchester City last year, remains highly rated within the coaching staff. Despite limited first-team minutes last season, Slicker has impressed during training sessions and friendly matches, prompting discussions about his potential involvement going forward.
“Cieran’s development has been very positive,” McKenna noted. “He’s a young goalkeeper with a lot of technical ability and a great attitude. We’re very happy with his progress. Whether that means he stays and pushes for minutes here or gains experience out on loan is still something we’re considering carefully.”
Ipswich’s decision-making around the goalkeeping department reflects a broader theme in McKenna’s management style — a focus on merit, competition, and development. With the club aiming to consolidate its return to the Championship and possibly push further, squad depth and form will be crucial, particularly in the goalkeeper position where injuries or dips in confidence can quickly impact a season.
Fans have been eager to see who will establish themselves as the first-choice shot-stopper, and while Muric appears to have the edge due to his experience, McKenna’s comments suggest that Slicker is far from out of the picture. The manager hinted that pre-season performances and training intensity will heavily influence who starts between the posts when the season kicks off.
“Both keepers will have the opportunity to show what they can do in the coming weeks. The competition is healthy, and that’s what we want — players pushing each other every day,” McKenna added.
As Ipswich prepares for their return to second-tier football after a memorable promotion campaign, the spotlight will remain firmly on who gets the nod in goal. Whether McKenna opts for Muric’s composure and pedigree or decides to give Slicker a chance to prove himself at a higher level, one thing is certain — the manager is leaving no stone unturned in building a team capable of competing.
