Norwich City boss Johannes Hoff Thorup under pressure, with Jack Wilshere tipped as potential replacement
Norwich City head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup is reportedly facing mounting pressure, with assistant manager Jack Wilshere being considered as a possible successor, according to Football Insider.
The Canaries have endured a disappointing season, currently sitting 13th in the Championship with just four games remaining. Neither in the hunt for a play-off spot nor threatened by relegation, this campaign marks a notable underperformance for a club that typically competes for promotion.
Thorup, who took over from David Wagner last summer, has had a turbulent debut season at Carrow Road. The 36-year-old Dane has overseen 13 wins, 14 draws, and 15 losses in the league—a record that has led to growing unrest among supporters.
Football Insider reports that Thorup’s position is under serious threat, with 33-year-old Wilshere in the frame to potentially take charge if a change is made. Wilshere, who joined the coaching staff in October, previously managed Arsenal’s U18s for two years, gaining early experience in the dugout.
Transitional struggles or time for change?
It’s clear this season has fallen short of expectations, with defensive vulnerabilities and lacklustre performances out of possession characterising much of Norwich’s campaign. Yet, it’s also been a transitional period, with several squad members ill-suited to Thorup’s tactical approach.
With time and more suitable signings, there’s a belief that the club could build momentum under Thorup next season. Despite the frustrations, sacking him now might disrupt long-term plans.
Lessons from the past
A parallel can be drawn with Daniel Farke’s first season in charge. He too endured a difficult debut campaign, finishing 14th with a similarly mixed record—15 wins, 15 draws, and 16 defeats. Criticised at the time, Farke ultimately led Norwich to the Championship title the following year.
While there’s no guarantee Thorup will repeat that feat, the comparison suggests patience can pay off during a rebuild.
However, the margin for error will shrink in the new season. If Thorup stays on, the expectation will be for significant improvement—and quickly.
