Norwich City has dismissed manager David Wagner shortly after their significant defeat by Leeds in the playoff semi-final’s second leg on Thursday. The decision signals the club’s intent to adopt a new strategic direction following a crushing 4-0 loss that dashed their hopes of ascending to the Premier League.
The club had already contemplated a change in leadership for the summer, but the lackluster performance against Leeds hastened this decision. Plans are now underway to appoint a younger head coach to take the reins.
Ben Knapper, Norwich’s sporting director and former loans manager at Arsenal, will spearhead the search for Wagner’s successor. Having worked closely with Arsenal’s technical director, Edu, Knapper is well-prepared for the task. Additionally, he will manage the anticipated bids for star players Gabriel Sara and Jonathan Rowe, both of whom are attracting interest from Premier League clubs.
Norwich City Makes Leadership Change
Despite a sluggish start to the season, placing 17th in November and facing criticism from fans, Norwich managed to secure a spot in the playoffs. However, Head Coach David Wagner was already on shaky ground. Wagner, who previously led Huddersfield to Premier League promotion in 2017, took over from Dean Smith in January 2023. He led Norwich to a 13th-place finish in the Championship last season. Wagner and Assistant Head Coach Christoph Bühler are both set to depart. Norwich’s Sporting Director, Stuart Webber, commented, “David has conducted himself with class and dignity during his tenure at Norwich City. Nevertheless, we believe it is time to pursue a new direction.”
