Norwich City have parted ways with manager Johannes Hoff Thorup following their 3-1 defeat to Millwall on Easter Monday.
The Canaries have been on a downward spiral for some time, recording just one win in their last 10 matches and suffering six defeats in that stretch.
Once contenders for a play-off spot, Norwich now sit 14th in the Championship, only a single point above Portsmouth—who had been in the relegation zone until earlier this week.
In a statement confirming Thorup’s dismissal, sporting director Ben Knapper explained: “While this appointment was made with a long-term vision aligned with our broader club strategy, the recent results and performances have made a change unavoidable.”
It seems to be open season for managerial changes across the league, with clubs like Southampton, West Brom, and potentially Cardiff and Leicester also seeking new leadership—meaning Norwich may need to act swiftly to land their preferred candidate.
Here are three potential replacements the Canaries should consider:
Russell Martin
A fan favourite and former player, Martin could divide opinion after a tough Premier League campaign with Southampton, but his success in securing promotion and implementing a possession-based system at Championship level speaks in his favour. He has maintained a strong connection with Norwich and would likely be a natural fit.
Jack Wilshere
While assistant coach Glen Riddersholm has exited alongside Thorup, Jack Wilshere remains at the club and has been appointed interim head coach for the season’s final two fixtures. Brought in from Arsenal’s under-18s in October, Wilshere already has a working relationship with Knapper and knows the squad well. Should results improve against Middlesbrough and Cardiff, he could be a serious contender for the permanent role.
Steve Cooper
The most experienced option, Cooper has a proven track record in the Championship, having led Nottingham Forest to promotion and managed both Swansea and Leicester. Out of work since leaving Leicester in November, a return to the second tier could suit him—and Norwich’s promotion ambitions could align well with his credentials. He might also represent a more cost-effective and less risky appointment compared to Martin or the inexperienced Wilshere.
