Anis Mehmeti’s Rise to Championship Stardom: A Decision Norwich May Regret
Anis Mehmeti has been in outstanding form for Bristol City this season, lighting up the Championship with 12 goals in 35 appearances from the left wing. The Albanian winger has been a pivotal figure in Liam Manning’s attack, consistently posing a threat on the left flank. His performances have undoubtedly put him on the radar for an international call-up.
Mehmeti has thrived in this role, which he previously excelled in at Wycombe Wanderers before being recruited by the Robins as a successor to Antoine Semenyo. While his start at Ashton Gate was steady, he has truly come into his own under Manning, a long-time admirer of his talents. However, despite his breakthrough campaign, Mehmeti’s journey to Championship success has been anything but easy.
Just five years ago, he was playing non-league football for Woodford Town after being released by Norwich City. Fortunately, Wycombe Wanderers took a gamble on him, offering a pathway back into professional football. From there, he quickly established himself as a key player before securing a move to Bristol City in January 2023.
Mehmeti’s Path to the Championship
Mehmeti’s footballing journey began with youth stints at Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham before joining Norwich’s academy in 2017, hoping to earn a professional contract. Although he gained valuable experience and developed under top coaches, his time at Carrow Road ended in 2020 when his contract expired. With no immediate club to turn to, he maintained his fitness by playing non-league football for Woodford Town.
Meanwhile, Wycombe had recently introduced a B-team designed to give young players released from academies a second chance. Mehmeti seized the opportunity, impressing Gareth Ainsworth in training and earning a place in the first team. His technical ability and attacking prowess made him a fan favorite at Adams Park, where he spent two-and-a-half successful seasons before Bristol City swooped in to sign him.
Did Norwich Make a Mistake Letting Mehmeti Go?
Looking back, Norwich may well regret their decision to part ways with Mehmeti. Though he never made a senior appearance for the Canaries, his rapid ascent through the footballing ranks suggests he was on the cusp of first-team football. Just months after leaving Norwich, he was making regular appearances for Wycombe at the same level as his former club.
Fast forward to 2025, and Mehmeti is enjoying the best season of his career, playing a crucial role in Bristol City’s push for the play-offs. Meanwhile, Norwich find themselves mid-table, possibly reflecting on what might have been. While the Canaries boast attacking talent, including Borja Sainz, the prospect of having Mehmeti alongside Josh Sargent could have been a game-changer in their promotion push.
With his impressive form, a potential Albania call-up, and his rising market value, Mehmeti’s journey is a testament to perseverance. Norwich, on the other hand, may be left thinking they misjudged his potential when they let him go.
