Liam Manning’s true motivation for Norwich City switch revealed as Bristol City doubts emerge

Add as preferred source on Google

We’ve been keeping a close eye on Liam Manning’s movements in the last few days as he closes in on the Norwich City job, and we can now exclusively reveal his thinking behind taking the role.

Liam Manning and Bristol City were one of the big success stories in the 2024/25 Championship campaign, with the Robins making it to the play-offs against all the odds.

Bristol City were duly dispatched by Sheffield United in brutal fashion there, and will have to go again next season. But, they may have to do that without Manning, it seems.

Norwich City were first linked with Manning earlier this month, and we’re now told his appointment at Carrow Road is imminent.

• READ MORE: Sky Sports commentator sympathises with Bristol City after ‘cruel’ play-off defeat to Sheffield United, it’s ‘tough to take’

Why is Liam Manning joining Norwich City?

On Monday, we revealed Manning was ready to accept Norwich’s approach and make the move back to Norfolk to be closer to his family.

But, EFL Analysis can now exclusively reveal thanks to information from Graeme Bailey that the geographical advantages are not the only driving factor behind his decision.

We are told Manning is keen on the Norwich City project because he believes the Canaries are better equipped to win promotion and make it to the Premier League when compared to the resources he has available at Bristol City.

It is said Manning is well aware of how big a club Norwich are and the potential they have, and that has played a part in his decision to make the switch.

• READ MORE: Jack Wilshere breaks silence after leaving Norwich City and reveals reason behind his decision

The task ahead for Liam Manning at Norwich City

If and when Manning does take over at Norwich, he will have his work cut out to get the Canaries in shape for that promotion push he wants and that the club will expect.

In the wake of Johannes Hoff Thorup’s departure, fans became disillusioned with the players for their perceived poor attitude on and off the field.

Manning will have to unite that dressing room and get the players fired up for the new campaign, but he will also very likely have a rebuild job on his hands, too.

Borja Sainz is wanted by top clubs already, and Josh Sargent is also expected to be Premier League bound.

Still, Manning will have targets at Bristol City he may want to bring with him. It will be an interesting project to watch unfold, that’s for sure.