Norwich City Sack Liam Manning – Three Managers Who Could Replace Him
Liam Manning has been dismissed as Norwich City head coach following their 2–1 defeat to Leicester City, which leaves the Canaries sitting 23rd in the Championship table.
Norwich began the campaign with optimism and clear intent to build on last season’s progress. After Johannes Hoff Thorup’s departure, the club placed their trust in Manning, backing him heavily during the summer transfer window.
However, that investment hasn’t brought the consistency the club hoped for. Performances have been erratic, and Norwich find themselves far from their early-season ambitions. Now, just 15 games into the season, the hierarchy have decided to part ways with Manning and begin the search for a new boss.
With Middlesbrough and Southampton also seeking new managers, Norwich face stiff competition in the market. Here are three realistic candidates the club should consider to get their campaign back on track.
Michael Carrick
Carrick has been loosely linked with Norwich in recent weeks — particularly with the potential return of sporting director Kieran Scott, with whom he worked closely during his Middlesbrough tenure.
Carrick impressed at Boro with his calm leadership and tactical organisation, and while his name hasn’t recently surfaced for Premier League vacancies, a project like Norwich could be an ideal opportunity to rebuild and challenge again in the Championship.
Russell Martin
A familiar face at Carrow Road, former Norwich defender Russell Martin could be a strong contender to return in the dugout.
Martin’s managerial rise began at MK Dons before he earned a move to Swansea City, where his possession-based football gained plaudits. That success led to a stint at Southampton, where he guided the Saints back to the Premier League through the play-offs.
However, his attacking style proved vulnerable at the top level, and a tough spell at Rangers followed. Now available, Martin will be eager to restore his reputation — and Norwich could present the right environment to do just that.
Russell Martin’s managerial record:
| Club | Games | Points per game |
|---|---|---|
| MK Dons | 80 | 1.38 |
| Swansea City | 99 | 1.35 |
| Southampton | 73 | 1.58 |
| Rangers | 17 | 1.24 |
Mark van Bommel
A more adventurous option could be Mark van Bommel. Best known for his decorated playing career, the Dutchman has quietly built an impressive managerial résumé, particularly during his time at Royal Antwerp.
Van Bommel guided Antwerp to a league and cup double in the 2022/23 season and added the Belgian Super Cup the following year, winning more than half of his matches in charge.
Although his previous stints at PSV Eindhoven and Wolfsburg were mixed, van Bommel’s tactical acumen and winning mentality could appeal to Norwich’s hierarchy if they are open to an overseas appointment.
Final thought:
Norwich City now face a crucial decision in their season. Whether they opt for an experienced Championship head like Carrick, a homecoming for Martin, or a bold move abroad for van Bommel, their next choice must bring stability — and results — back to Carrow Road.