Norwich City are considering Watford’s Tom Cleverley as a candidate in their search for a new head coach, according to The Sun.
Following the recent departure of Johannes Hoff Thorup, Norwich are on the hunt for a new manager. The decision to part ways with Thorup came as a surprise to many, but the club deemed it necessary with a crucial summer ahead.
The Canaries are headed for a mid-table finish despite initially targeting a play-off push. Although this season was largely seen as transitional, a poor run of form ultimately led to Thorup’s exit.
Now, Norwich’s leadership are believed to be assessing a range of options, and The Sun claims one name on their shortlist is Watford boss Tom Cleverley.
According to the report, Norwich are interested in luring Cleverley from their Championship rivals. After a month-long stint as caretaker, Cleverley was appointed Watford’s permanent manager over a year ago.
It is suggested that Norwich feel they can offer Cleverley a more stable environment and stronger financial backing, which could help him take his career to the next level. If the club prioritises him, Cleverley might find the opportunity too good to turn down.
An unexpected option?
Cleverley has not been widely mentioned among the frontrunners for the Norwich job, but he has made a steady start to life in senior management at Watford.
The 35-year-old was thrust into a challenging role after previously managing Watford’s U18s between July 2023 and March 2024. Nevertheless, he has steered Watford to a respectable mid-table finish, with brief hopes of a play-off challenge along the way.
Uncertainty about Cleverley’s long-term future at Vicarage Road has surfaced at times, and the prospect of a more secure setup at Carrow Road could be appealing. However, Norwich are likely considering several candidates before making a final decision.
High expectations at Norwich City
Thorup’s sacking highlights that Norwich demand clear progress, despite this year being seen by some as a transitional phase.
Next season, the expectation will likely be a strong push for the play-offs. While the current squad needs strengthening to reach those heights, the Canaries’ board has already invested in the team and plans to continue supporting the squad this summer.
Whoever is appointed will be given resources to build a stronger team — something Cleverley might not have to the same extent if he stays at Watford.
