Johannes Hoff Thorup, the former Norwich City head coach, went head-to-head with QPR twice during the past season.
Now, QPR appear to be closing in on resolving their managerial situation at Loftus Road, with Thorup emerging as the frontrunner to replace Marti Cifuentes. Cifuentes, who was placed on gardening leave last month, seems increasingly unlikely to return to the role. According to The Telegraph, discussions with Thorup have taken place and are said to have progressed well.
Danish outlet Tipsbladet, known for its Scandinavian football coverage, reports that Thorup is “close to becoming the new head coach of QPR.” The 35-year-old has reportedly had multiple conversations with the club’s leadership, including at least one in-person meeting.
Thorup’s name being linked to the QPR job has drawn attention, with some supporters viewing it as a potentially strong appointment. While his stint at Norwich City ended with six losses in his final eight matches, he maintained a positive reputation at Carrow Road. During the 2023–24 season, his Norwich side lost 3-0 away to QPR but managed a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture at home.
Ahead of that trip to Loftus Road, Thorup spoke respectfully about Cifuentes’ QPR side, commending their tactical shift toward pragmatism. Reflecting on QPR’s inconsistent form, he explained: “That’s just how this league works. Most teams tend to get results at home, and QPR are no exception.”
He added: “They began the season trying to control games more, but as results and key players fell away, they adapted and became more pragmatic. I watched their recent match against Watford—they had several clear chances near the end. They could’ve taken all three points. We’ll need to play at our highest level to earn anything there.”
If he does take charge at QPR, Thorup is expected to bring that same balanced approach. His belief in youth and the importance of building consistency may resonate well at a club that has seen young talents like Kieran Moran, Alfie Lloyd, and Rayan Kolli make breakthroughs, despite a rollercoaster season.
Speaking before a 1-1 draw with QPR in December, Thorup emphasised the promise shown by young players and the importance of creating a consistent playing identity. “When you look at our performance against Millwall,” he said, “so many teams struggle to break them down, but we played with rhythm, flow, and created clear chances—especially with young players on the pitch. That’s a glimpse of what we can achieve. The next step is doing it week in, week out.”
Should his appointment be confirmed, QPR fans will hope that Thorup’s progressive philosophy and belief in youth development can bring renewed energy and structure to the club’s long-term project.
