Norwich City Eye Russell Martin for Managerial Return Amidst Potential Club Overhaul
Norwich City recently parted ways with manager Johannes Hoff Thorup, who leaves the club sitting mid-table in the Championship. Former Arsenal and England midfielder Jack Wilshere has been appointed as interim boss until the end of the 2024/25 campaign.
While several names have been linked with the vacancy at Carrow Road, one intriguing candidate is former Norwich captain and defender Russell Martin. Supporters on social media have been vocal in calling for his return.
Martin is widely known for his bold and highly possession-based tactical style, which borders on the extreme. His reputation took a hit following a challenging Premier League spell with Southampton, despite leading the club to promotion via the play-offs the season prior. A return to Norwich could mark a fresh chapter and a potential tactical shift at the club.
Martin’s Tactical Identity
Throughout his managerial career with MK Dons, Swansea City, and Southampton, Martin has been committed to an expansive passing game, often resulting in high possession stats. However, his sides have typically been vulnerable defensively — Southampton conceded 63 goals in their promotion season — echoing some of the same fragilities seen under Thorup, whose Norwich side has let in 66 goals in 44 league games.
Where Martin differs is in his commitment to a clearly defined system, often utilizing a back-three formation regardless of the squad’s suitability. That would be a departure from the 4-2-3-1 system Norwich have stuck with since 2017 under Thorup, Wagner, and Farke.
The Borja Sainz Factor and Recruitment Implications
One major decision looming this summer is the future of Spanish winger Borja Sainz. After a strong start to the season, speculation around a move to Athletic Club appeared to affect his form. While technically gifted, his free-form playing style may not fit into Martin’s system, which places a high value on structure and tactical discipline over individual improvisation.
Martin’s past recruitment history, especially during his time at Southampton, also suggests he favors English players who fit his system — with signings like Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Adam Lallana, and Flynn Downes. That could mark a significant change for Norwich, who have had success in recent years recruiting talent from abroad, including Sainz, Emi Buendía, and Gabriel Sara.
With fewer than ten English players featuring in the Championship for Norwich this season, a shift in transfer strategy could be on the horizon should Martin take charge.
