Alious
Ipswich Town’s return to the Premier League ended in disappointment as the club was relegated following a 3-1 defeat to West Ham United on the final day of the season. The result capped a difficult campaign in which the Tractor Boys collected only 22 points from 38 matches, prompting the need for restructuring ahead of a fresh Championship push.
Among the changes, manager Kieran McKenna has made the tough decision not to renew the contract of 32-year-old Australian international Massimo Luongo. Despite his instrumental role in helping Ipswich achieve back-to-back promotions, Luongo will depart the club this summer, a move that has been met with reluctant approval from sections of the fanbase.
Luongo’s journey saw him rise through Tottenham’s youth ranks before establishing himself at Swindon Town, Queens Park Rangers, and Sheffield Wednesday. After a brief, uneventful stint at Middlesbrough, he joined Ipswich, where he reignited his career and formed a formidable midfield pairing with Sam Morsy, helping the team climb from League One to the top flight. However, the transition to Premier League football proved challenging for the veteran, who featured in only 11 matches this season.
Ipswich Town fan and pundit Adam Wilkin acknowledged Luongo’s immense contribution, labeling him as possibly the best free signing in the club’s recent history. Yet, he concurred with McKenna’s decision, noting that the demands of the Premier League, coupled with Luongo’s age and reduced playing time, suggest the time is right for both parties to move on.
Wilkin added that with Ipswich likely to overhaul their midfield—especially with loan players Kalvin Phillips and Jens Cajuste returning to their parent clubs and captain Morsy nearing his mid-thirties—creating space for younger, more dynamic options is essential if the club is to mount a serious promotion campaign next season.
While the decision to let Luongo go may seem harsh, particularly given his service and popularity, it appears to be a strategic move aimed at refreshing the squad and strengthening key areas. With anticipated transfer funds and parachute payments at their disposal, Ipswich are poised for a potentially ambitious summer. Though Luongo’s departure marks the end of a memorable chapter, it might also be the beginning of a new, more competitive era under McKenna.
Alious
