Ali Ahmed injury clouds Norwich start
Norwich City face a significant setback ahead of their Championship opener against West Bromwich Albion as winger Ali Ahmed picked up a knee injury during their pre-season defeat to Osasuna. The Canadian, who joined from Vancouver Whitecaps in January 2026, was substituted around the 70th minute after feeling discomfort in his knee.
Ahmed made an immediate impact last season, scoring four goals and providing three assists in 19 league appearances. He had established himself as a key figure on the left flank under Philippe Clement. The manager confirmed the injury was a blow, saying: "He felt something in his knee. It's never good, of course, and everybody's a little bit devastated after that." Clement added, "We need to accept it and see now the next couple of days what's the case, but it doesn't look good."
Alongside Ahmed, Jovon Makama, Kellen Fisher, and Lucien Mahovo are also sidelined, leaving Clement with limited options on the wings for the opening fixture. The manager will have to consider players like Matej Jurasek, Forson Amankwah, Andre Brooks, Ante Crnac, and Papa Diallo, though some of these are returning from their own injury issues.
Norwich consider transfer after Ahmed injury
With Ali Ahmed’s injury likely to keep him out for a prolonged period, Norwich City are assessing their options on the left wing. According to The Pink'un, Football League World, the club is awaiting scan results to determine the full extent of the injury before deciding on next steps.
Sporting director Ben Knapper addressed the situation at a recent fans forum, stating: "At the moment, we are all just trying to support Ali in the first couple of days (after injury). We don't know the full extent of everything, but the early signs don't look good."
Knapper confirmed Norwich are exploring both internal and external solutions. While players like Papa Diallo and Ante Crnac could return soon, relying on them carries risks due to their recent injuries. Forson Amankwah, currently available to leave, might be retained as a depth option but is not seen as a direct replacement for Ahmed.
"It's then something we need to assess. But that will involve lots of conversations around what solutions do we have internally? What is the availability in the market? That's something that we need to look at as well," Knapper said. He added the transfer window remains open, giving Norwich time to act if necessary.
Wide area injury woes deepen for Norwich
Norwich’s injury problems on the flanks continue to mount with Ali Ahmed joining a growing list of wide players sidelined ahead of the new season. The Canaries have struggled with injuries in these positions throughout last season and now face a similar challenge as they prepare for their Championship campaign.
Impact on squad depth
Ahmed’s absence leaves a gap in a position Clement had hoped to strengthen with his January signing. The manager’s options are limited, with some potential replacements still regaining fitness. This situation puts pressure on fringe players to step up and on the club’s recruitment team to find reinforcements if needed.
Fan reaction and outlook
Supporters have expressed their concern and support for Ahmed on social media, recognising the setback for a player who had quickly become a fan favourite. The injury also highlights the ongoing need for squad depth, particularly on the left wing, as Norwich look to build on last season’s strong finish.
As the club awaits further medical updates, the focus will be on how quickly Ahmed can recover and whether Norwich will move in the transfer market to cover his absence. For now, Clement must adapt his starting XI and hope his squad can cope with the early-season challenges.